Addressing the gathered crowds at the Museum, King Charles spoke of his delight that Britain and France had organised the transfer, describing it as ‘the best possible symbol’ of the ‘entente amicale’ between the two nations. The phrase is a reference to the ‘entente cordiale’, which the two Heads of State rebranded during the French state visit to Britain last year.
His Majesty, who spoke in French for much of his speech, also noted the irony that, although the tapestry depicts a conflict, it is now a ‘precious symbol of trust, at a time when trust seems sadly to be in short supply between nations.’ Indeed, the ‘70 metres of memory and artistry’ should serve as a reminder that ‘our two nations have been bound together for almost a millennium,’ the King added. ‘We have defended our values together in times of peril; we continue to do so today across the world.’
Queen Camilla understands French glamour more than many others, donning Dior during a state visit to Versailles in 2023
Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Queen Camilla seems always to be at her elegant best while channelling French glamour. Her ensemble during a state banquet at Versailles in 2023 is considered one of the most dazzling outfits of her royal career. Stepping out at the historic palace under moonlight, the Queen wore a billowing midnight-blue bespoke Dior gown, a nod to the French heritage of the legendary fashion house. Camilla paired the haute couture piece with a suite of sapphire jewels that was gifted to Queen Elizabeth II by her father, King George VI, in 1947.