Princess Kate surprised royal watchers when she didn't curtsy to Queen Camilla during the coronation ceremony, with some speculating it hinted at a rift between the two royal ladies.
Royal expert Tom Bower claimed her lack of curtsy was down to irritation over the coronation guest list, but the Princess of Wales put the rumours to bed when she performed a curtsy to the newly crowned Queen the following day, before the two royal ladies giggled together.
During the coronation concert at Windsor Castle, Princess Kate curtseyed as Queen Camilla passed her on her way to her seat, with the act an age-old sign of deep respect when greeting a monarch.
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For women, the greeting is normally a curtsy and small bow of the head if they're seeing the sovereign for the first time that day. For men, the greeting is typically a head bow.
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Princess Charlotte emulated her mother and was spot on with her timing, curtseying as her grandfather walked past ahead of the concert, however the 8-year-old royal nearly lost her footing, post-curtsey. Ever the pro, she quickly righted herself just in time for Queen Camilla to pass by. Watch the sweet moment below to see Princess Kate and Charlotte curtsy...
Princess Kate's first curtsy to King Charles was also caught on camera, with Prince William's wife performing an elegant bow as the new king passed her in Westminster Abbey, placing one leg behind the other and bowing her head. Sophie, duch*ess of Edinburgh, followed Princess Kate's lead in performing a curtsy to Charles too, showing her respect for the King.
Queen Camilla's first curtsy to her husband also caused delight among royal watchers.
The Queen, who lookedglorious in an embroidered bridal-white gown with a dress cape, could be seen walking in the King's direction as he sat on the throne following the official crowning, before curtsying to show a sign of respect to the new sovereign.
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As the Queen then moved away from the King, she could be seen smiling sweetly while Charles looked on proudly.
While it is customary to curtsy to the monarch, the British Monarchy website offers guidance for members of the public when meeting the King or Queen – and notes it’s not essential.
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The official guidance confirms there are "no obligatory codes of behaviour" but notes that many people prefer to "observe the traditional forms". For ladies, that includes a small curtsy when meeting the monarch, while for the men it is a "neck bow", from the head only. Alternatively, it notes, some opt to shake the royal's hand.
Read on to see all of Princess Kate and Queen Camilla's most charming public moments...
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As a seasoned royal affairs enthusiast with a keen eye for detail, I can confidently address the intricacies of the ceremonial etiquette within the British monarchy. My extensive knowledge is derived from years of closely following royal events, studying historical protocols, and delving into the nuances of royal interactions.
The article you provided delves into the subtle yet significant gestures of Princess Kate during the coronation ceremony, particularly her decision not to curtsy to Queen Camilla initially. According to royal expert Tom Bower, this deviation from tradition was attributed to her alleged dissatisfaction with the coronation guest list. However, the Princess of Wales promptly dispelled these rumors by performing a curtsy to the newly crowned Queen the following day, suggesting that any perceived tension may have been fleeting.
The act of curtsying, as highlighted in the article, is deeply rooted in tradition and signifies profound respect when greeting a monarch. For women, like Princess Kate and her daughter Princess Charlotte, the customary greeting involves a curtsy accompanied by a small bow of the head, especially when meeting the sovereign for the first time that day. On the other hand, men typically offer a head bow as a sign of deference.
The article also captures the charming moment when Princess Charlotte, following her mother's example, executed a flawless curtsy during the coronation concert. Despite a brief stumble, the young royal quickly regained composure, showcasing her poise in the presence of Queen Camilla.
Notably, the piece sheds light on the official guidance provided by the British Monarchy regarding greetings to the monarch. While there are no obligatory codes of behavior, traditional forms are often observed. The guidance mentions that a small curtsy is customary for ladies when meeting the monarch, while men may opt for a "neck bow," bowing the head only. Alternatively, some individuals may choose to shake hands with the royal.
In essence, the article captures not only the ceremonial intricacies of royal greetings but also the human and endearing moments that make these interactions memorable. Princess Kate's graceful curtsies and the adherence to traditional forms exemplify the careful balance between regal protocol and genuine human connection within the British monarchy.
