Poignant Meaning Behind The New Princess Diana Statue’s Oddly Specific Outfit
On the day Princess Diana would have turned 60, a memorial statue was unveiled in her honor. And Princes William and Harry came together to celebrate the moment — even though they’re still said to be feuding. But as all eyes were on the brothers, one thing was overlooked. The outfit the statue is wearing has some real meaning behind it. And you’ll be touched by its poignancy.
The commission
The statue itself? That was commissioned by the brothers in early 2017 — so, a few years before Harry and William’s rift began. And the princes explained why they’d given the artwork the go-ahead, saying, “It has been 20 years since our mother’s death, and the time is right to recognize her positive impact in the U.K. and around the world with a permanent statue.”
The hunt for an artist
“Our mother touched so many lives. We hope the statue will help all those who visit Kensington Palace to reflect on her life and her legacy,” William and Harry continued. First thing first, though, they had to find the right person for the job. It had to be a sculptor who could perfectly capture Diana’s likeness — and that particular outfit, too.
The selected artist
The search didn’t take long. Ian Rank-Broadley got the nod — perhaps because he’s the guy who created the famous image of the Queen on British coins. And the brothers released a joint statement to the media talking about the choice. They also revealed what it meant for them to have reminders of their mother.
Beautiful memories
William and Harry said in their statement, “We have been touched by the kind words and memories so many people have shared about our mother over these past few months. It is clear the significance of her work is still felt by many in the U.K. and across the world — even 20 years after her death.”
