So here it is: the answer to the question, what exactly has Princess Charlotte been up to for the past few months? As the fourth-in-line to the throne celebrates her first birthday today — and hands up everyone who has forgotten to get her a birthday present — her parents have released a selection of pictures showing some recent highlights from the life and times of the youngest resident of Anmer Hall.
Given that the world does not get to see much of young Charlotte (a recent exception was the picture of the Queen by Annie Leibovitz with an assortment of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with Charlotte in pride of place on Gan-Gan’s lap) the pictures, taken by the Duchess of Cambridge at their Norfolk home, offer an invaluable insight into the princess’s life.
Observation number one, of course, is that she is walking or, at least, walking with the assistance of a nifty little truck with a smart, multicoloured handle and some wooden alphabet blocks. She has a very determined expression on her face.
If one looks very carefully, the letters spell out: “George, if you don’t watch out I am going to be Queen one day.” Possibly.
In the background there is a vague dark shape on the lawn which may, or may not, be the family dog, Lupo, keeping an eye on things. Lupo knows where the bodies are buried.
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Observation number two is that Charlotte, with her neat parting and selection of hair clips in a variety of different colours, is a young person who takes a great deal of care with her hair. Don’t know where she gets that from.
Observation number three: doesn’t she look like George? What with the blue eyes and everything, and especially in the picture of her sitting on the floor wearing the pink cardigan with the white collar, staring at something significant just off-camera.
Charlotte would like this one to be known as My Destiny: Queen Charlotte at an early age.
She also has a good selection of chair poses. In one picture she is supporting herself by leaning on a white chair, looking quite pleased with herself; in another she is clambering on a wicker chair, giving a playful glance as she looks back at the camera. Wherever those wicker chairs come from, do not expect them to be in the shops come tomorrow.
A Kensington Palace spokeswoman said: “The Duke and Duchess are very happy to be able to share these important family moments and hope that everyone enjoys these lovely photos as much as they do.”