A Picture That Tells a Story
The Queen's People (Published by Assouline)
The Queen's People is a magnificent book, published by Assouline in 2016. It was the concept of the acclaimed photographer, Hugo Rittson-Thomas. Hugo took portraits of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; the then Duchess of Cornwall (now HRH Queen Camilla), and HRH Prince William. The other portraits are of the people who support the crown and the government.
All the Queen's People are depicted in their wonderful ceremonial costumes, regalia and significant items that represent their official role.
Among them are, The Queen's Swan Marker; The Clerk of the Houses of Parliament; The Royal Mews Lady Coachman, and many others.
This outstanding photographic record starts with a dramatic portrait of a lady holding an official red Despatch Box made by Barrow Hepburn & Gale; the official makers and suppliers of Despatch Boxes to the royal household and the British government.
You are about to learn why the cut portrait appears instead of a full-length portrait.
Hugo Rittson-Thomas approached Angela of Barrow, Hepburn & Gale to ask her to be involved in the project. The photoshoot took place on the 25th September 2012 at studios on Scrubbs Lane, North London.
The photographs were taken in a small corner of the studio, backed with a series of mirrors and black curtains. Hugo's lighting and flashes were close, quick, and intense. Unfortunately, every time Hugo tried to capture the shot of Angela, her eyes automatically closed. Angela recounts:
“I tried very hard to keep my eyes open and follow Hugo's instructions. Every time he got me in the frame and asked me to hold my position, I held my pose but blinked as he took the shot. Nevertheless, I am delighted that I managed to make the final cut”.
How do we know that portrait in The Queen's People is Angela? The clue is the ring that Angela wore on the day of the shoot. Look closely at the double page in the published book, on which Angela appears holding the red Despatch Box with the late queen's cipher embossed in gold. You will spot the ring.
Now look at the more recent photograph of Angela holding one of Assouline's limited edition copies of The Queen's People. She is wearing the same ring.
