British society magazine Tatler unveiled the cover of its July 2024 issue on Wednesday: a portrait of Catherine, Princess of Wales, by British-Zambian artist Hannah Uzor. This marks the third consecutive year Tatler has commissioned a royal portrait for its cover.
The series began in 2022 with a celebratory portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Nigerian artist Oluwole Omofemi, followed by Trinidadian artist Sarah Knight's depiction of King Charles III upon his coronation. These commissions inspired the creation of the Akoje Residency, announced earlier this year. Founded by rugby star Maro Itoje and his business partner Khalil Akar in collaboration with the King's Foundation, the residency offers African, Caribbean, and diaspora artists dedicated time at Dumfries House in Scotland to focus on their craft.
While the magazine aims to celebrate royalty through art, the online response to the Princess of Wales' portrait, similar to the reaction for King Charles III's, has been mixed. Comments on Tatler's Instagram page ranged from critiques of the artistic style to concerns about the likeness to the Princess.
Despite the online debate, Uzor expressed her admiration for Kate in a Tatler interview. "She has truly embraced her role," Uzor said. "She embodies dignity, elegance, and grace."
The portrait features the Princess in a floor-length Jenny Packham cape dress, replicating the attire she wore to a state banquet for the South African president in November 2023, according to fashion watchdog @diet_prada.
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