Diana, Princess of Wales; former consort of Prince Charles; devoted mother to Prince William and Prince Harry; patroness of many charities and organisations, campaigner, activist and international icon of grace, elegance, and glamour.  Her untimely demise due to a car crash in 1997 greatly saddened the world. Princess Diana’s legacy has deeply impacted the royal family and British society, and she continues to be remembered dearly till this day.

On 1st July 2021, Prince William and Prince Harry paid homage to their late mother, Princess Diana – a special day which would have been the Princess’ 60th birthday. The brothers unveiled Princess Diana’s statue at the Sunken Garden of Kensington Palace, also known to be her favourite spot. The stunning garden where the ceremony took place was designed by Pip Morrison. 

Created by Ian Rank-Broadley, the statue of the Princess is depicted in one of her trademark ensembles of a tuxedo-pleated button-up shirt, simple A-line skirt and a bold, wide belt. Renowned for her many eye-catching and show-stopping outfits, this statue perfectly encapsulates the late Princess’ style. 

The new memorial, slightly larger at 1.25 times life size, is commissioned by the brothers to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their mother’s passing. With outstretched arms, the Princess is seen standing alongside three children.  According to The Independent, Kensington Place released a statement expressing that the statue “reflects the warmth, elegance, and energy of Diana.” The three children are meant to represent the “universality and generational impact” of her humanitarian work. 

A joint statement from Princes William and Harry stated: “It has been 20 years since our mother’s death and the time is right to recognise her positive impact in the UK and around the world with a permanent statue. 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.”