Queen Elizabeth's Witty Six-Word Retort During Iconic Portrait Session Revealed
An artist has disclosed a hilarious six-word retort from Queen Elizabeth II that revealed a glimpse of her true personality during a portrait session. Chris Levine, the photographer behind some of the most iconic portraits of the late monarch, has shared details of how he was "positioning" her while capturing her with a 3D laser scan.
The Commission and Creation of Enduring Portraits
Commissioned by Jersey Heritage in 2004, Chris Levine was tasked with producing a portrait to mark Jersey's 800-year allegiance to the Crown. The completed photograph, titled Equanimity, was later presented to the National Portrait Gallery. A second image, the holographic Lightness of Being, was a variation that Levine began using in 2008. This portrait would become one of the most enduring images of Queen Elizabeth, who would have celebrated her 100th birthday on April 21.
Sitting for these portraits did not appear to dampen the late Queen's spirits. In fact, she even offered an amusing six-word response to Levine's assistant, Nina Duncan, after the process was likened to that of a "passport photo." This comment came to light after Levine shared new images of the Queen with The Mail.
The Memorable Exchange and Its Significance
Levine recounted the moment: "When I was positioning the Queen to have her 3D laser scan taken, my assistant, Nina Duncan, said, 'It's a bit like having your passport photo taken, Your Majesty.' Ma'am replied with a smile, 'One doesn't need a passport photo.' I took the head-on picture just after that moment." He added, "I captured the moment with a small digital, hand-held camera. I always liked it but never released it."
As the former Sovereign, Elizabeth, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 96, had no requirement for a passport during her reign, according to the Royal Family website. This privilege equally applies to King Charles today. The website states: "When travelling overseas, the Sovereign does not require a British passport. As a British passport is issued in the name of His Majesty, it is unnecessary for The King to possess one. All other Members of the Royal Family, including The Queen and The Prince of Wales, have passports."
Commemorations and Tributes to the Late Queen
In other news, Elizabeth is set to be commemorated with a limited-edition collector's teddy bear crafted in her likeness, as part of festivities marking her 100th birthday next week. Steiff's Queen Elizabeth II Bear, crafted from mohair, is accessorised with a jewelled brooch and hat. Dressed in a classic lime-green ensemble associated with Elizabeth, it also features a handbag and a pearl necklace.
Each bear is individually numbered and comes in a souvenir bag with a certificate of authenticity, while embroidery on the soles of its feet marks the late monarch's 100th birthday. King Charles is expected to lead the tributes next week, with the King addressing the nation and celebrating his mother's life. He and Queen Camilla will also hold a reception for representatives from organisations and charities associated with the late Queen.
