Annie Leibovitz Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace, London March 2007 Archival Pigment Print 30 x 40 inches � Annie Leibovitz 2007

Dear Friends,

As most of you will know, Peter originates from the sceptered isle across the pond, but has long since made his home in California. Nostalgia for Great Britain and the American fascination with the Royal Family are two things he is quite familiar with.

This portrait of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II by Annie Leibovitz is realised from a unique perspective, that of an American, the first American photographer who has made an official portrait of the Queen. Leibovitz described this fact as an advantage, that separated her from her predecessors. Being American, gave her unfettered license to be reverent, to capture the mystery and ethereal nature of royalty. 

Sir Thomas Lawrence "Queen Charlotte" 1789-90 National Gallery, London

Taking note and referencing the great portrait artist's 

of English history, Leibovitz's inspiration for this particular portrait comes from Sir Thomas Lawrence's painting of Queen Charlotte in 1789. The cold light of 

an English winter is unmistakeable, her style evokes 

the romance of Gainsborough and the heroic classicism of Reynolds. 

A truly beautiful image, taken in The White Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace, it is both sombre and sweet, opulent and still touched by humanity. The portrait has been credited as a compassionate study in age and an accurate depiction of one of the most iconic women of our era. 

So, here's to the Queen! To Mother England, and a hearty (belated) congratulations in honour of the most recent royal addition, Prince George of Cambridge.

See more of Annie Leibovitz's works on the gallery website here.