Queen Mary made an elegant entrance at Frederiksborg Castle on Friday, September 25, joining King Frederik for the unveiling of his first painted portrait since becoming monarch.
For the occasion, she chose a white dress that looked understated at first glance, until its gold details caught the light.
The sleeveless design featured a high neckline and a full, ankle-length skirt. Gold accents swept across the bodice and through a sheer panel gathered at the waist, which draped down the front of the dress.
The flowing fabric softened its structured silhouette and gave Mary’s look movement as she walked beside Frederik, who wore a black tuxedo and bow tie.
© KongehusetMary finished the ensemble with sparkling pointed-toe heels, earrings and bracelets. She wore her hair swept back from her face, letting the dress’s unusual draping take center stage. The couple paused for photographs outside the castle, where Mary also accepted a colorful bouquet from a young boy.
The portrait unveiling took place during a celebration of the Carlsberg Foundation’s 150th anniversary. Inside Frederiksborg Castle, Mary and Frederik viewed the new painting by Danish artist Cathrine Raben Davidsen.
© KongehusetThe work depicts the king in formal uniform against a textured backdrop, a departure from the more straightforward settings often seen in traditional royal portraits.
According to the Danish royal household, the painting brings together the conventions of a monarch’s portrait and Davidsen’s modern artistic style. Visible brushstrokes and translucent layers allow the figure and the natural surroundings to blend together.
© KongehusetThe portrait now hangs in the castle’s Great Hall alongside paintings of other monarchs from the Glücksburg dynasty, beginning with Christian IX.
It was a significant evening for Frederik, whose portrait marks a new addition to that royal collection. Mary’s outfit felt fitting for the setting, its simple white silhouette gave the gold and sheer details room to shine, adding a contemporary flourish to a formal occasion.
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