Recently, Buckingham Palace shared a striking portrait featuring the King and Queen, along with the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Edinburgh, during Royal Week in Scotland. The image captured the quartet in their regal attire following the Thistle Service at St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh. Charles, Camilla, Prince William, and Prince Edward were adorned in the green Mantle of the Order of the Thistle velvet robes, complete with white-plumed hats and shimmering insignia, including the Thistle Stars, for the occasion.
While many admirers of the royal family found the portrait to be visually captivating, it also raised some inquiries among the viewers. Some social media followers questioned why the Duchess of Edinburgh was not robed or included in the picture, despite her attendance at the service. The explanation behind this omission is that Sophie is not a Lady of the Thistle, which is the highest accolade in Scotland. Individuals bestowed with this honor are personally chosen by the King, and Sophie may potentially receive this recognition in the future.
The Significance of the Order of the Thistle
The Order of the Thistle comprises 16 knights and ladies, in addition to the Queen, the Princess Royal, and the Duke of Rothesay. Prince Edward was recently appointed to the Order on his 60th birthday, while Queen Camilla was granted this distinction in June 2023. Those appointed as Thistle Knights or Ladies are acknowledged for their public service or substantial contributions to national life.
Princess Anne, who did not attend the service in Scotland, is currently recovering from a concussion sustained in a recent accident. Similarly, the Princess of Wales was absent due to her ongoing cancer treatment. Despite their absence, the royal family continues to fulfill their duties and engagements, showcasing their dedication and resilience even during challenging times.
Delving deeper into the philanthropic endeavors of the royal family members, we discover their involvement in various charitable organizations and causes. Camilla, for instance, serves as a patron of Maggie’s Cancer Care Centres and supports multiple charities based in Scotland, such as Crathie Opportunity Holidays, Scotland’s Gardens Scheme, and Horseback UK. Edward also holds patronages of several Scottish charitable organizations, including the Edinburgh International Festival, reflecting the royals’ commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
The historic portrait shared by Buckingham Palace not only captures a momentous occasion but also sheds light on the traditions and honors associated with the Order of the Thistle. Despite the questions raised by some viewers, the portrait serves as a reminder of the royal family’s enduring legacy and their dedication to serving the people of Scotland and beyond.