In a surprising twist to royal traditions, Princess Anne was notably absent from the guest list during the baptism of her great-nephew, Prince George.
This event, which took place in 2013, has recently been highlighted by royal biographer Robert Jobson, who sheds light on the intimate nature of the ceremony held at the Chapel Royal in St. James’s Palace.
Prince George, born just three months prior, was baptized in what can only be described as a surprisingly modest affair for a royal of his stature.
With only 22 attendees present, the ceremony was far from the opulent celebrations typically associated with the British monarchy.
The newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, officiated the service on October 23, marking a significant moment in the young prince’s life.
Jobson notes that this baptism starkly contrasted with the lavish celebration of Prince William’s own christening in 1982, which attracted much more attention and a larger crowd.
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The decision to keep the guest list short resulted in some notable exclusions, including Princess Anne, the Duke of York, and the Earl of Wessex.
This choice allowed the Cambridges to invite close friends and family instead.
Among the 22 guests were Catherine’s parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, along with her siblings, Pippa and James.
Also present were Prince Charles, Camilla, Prince Harry, the Queen, and Prince Philip, creating a tight-knit gathering for this royal milestone.
The selection of godparents for Prince George was equally intriguing, featuring a blend of William and Kate’s early friends and school companions.
Notable figures included Julia Samuel, a close confidante of Princess Diana, and Jamie Lothar Pinkerton, who has been a long-time aide to Prince William.
This mix of personal connections highlights the couple’s desire to keep the occasion intimate and reflective of their close relationships.
Interestingly, among the chosen godparents was Zara Tyndall, Princess Anne’s daughter, which adds a familial touch to the ceremony despite Anne’s absence.
It seems that the Cambridges aimed to balance royal tradition with personal significance in their choices.
Jobson draws an interesting parallel between George’s baptism and that of his father, which took place at Buckingham Palace.
William’s christening was a grand affair, featuring a balcony appearance by the Queen Mother and a throng of spectators outside, showcasing the public’s fascination with the royal family.
A portrait taken during George’s baptism offered a glimpse into this momentous occasion, featuring Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, and baby George.
This image marked a historic moment, as it was the first time since 1899 that the reigning monarch was seen with three heirs apparent, a nod to the continuity of the royal lineage.
