By Jennifer McShane
06th Jul 2019
06th Jul 2019
Amid some criticism for opting to keep their baby’s Christening and its details private, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have released the official portraits from the day
After announcing that details of their son Archie’s christening would be kept private, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have released official photos from the day to share with the public.
“This morning, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor was christened in the Private Chapel at Windsor Castle at an intimate service officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby,” they said via a statement on social media.
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“The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are so happy to share the joy of this day with members of the public who have been incredibly supportive since the birth of their son. They thank you for your kindness in welcoming their first born and celebrating this special moment.”
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Privacy
The royal couple opted to exclude the press and the public from the day and chose not to reveal the names of Archie’s godparents, and instead of having press photographers, fashion photographer Chris Allerton – who took their wedding photos – captured the special moment.
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There had been criticism at this decision to break from tradition and keep the day more private, but given the large amount of press which has been so negatively anchored towards Meghan Markle in recent months, one can see why they chose to go down this route – they are under no obligation to share such intimate moments with the public.
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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were seen arriving but were not thought to have their children with them.
Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall were reported to have arrived at the ceremony by helicopter and Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, also attended.
The Queen did not attend due to a prior engagement.
Royal traditions
Some royal traditions remained in place though.
According to their statement, “Archie, was baptised wearing the handmade replica of the royal christening gown which has been worn by royal infants for the last 11 years. The original Royal Christening Robe, made of fine Honiton lace lined with white satin, was commissioned by Queen Victoria in 1841 and first worn by her eldest daughter.
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It was subsequently worn for generations of Royal christenings, including The Queen, her children and her grandchildren until 2004, when The Queen commissioned this handmade replica, in order for the fragile historic outfit to be preserved, and for the tradition to continue.”
The Duchess of Sussex wore Dior and The Duchess of Cambridge wore Stella McCartney.
Main photograph: @Daily_Express
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