The statue unveiled today of Diana, the Princess of Wales, was never going to please everyone. The work in bronze by Ian Rank-Broadley shows the late royal with three children (the piece is intended apparently to represent the “universality and generational impact” of the princess’s work). But the intriguing piece has polarised people. One contributor on twitter said that “it might grow on me but it’s a bit scary” while another said the piece looked “quite butch”. Others gushed—“this is her pure essence… it’s wonderful,” said a more effusive social media post. “It’s a tough gig,” said an art critic who naturally preferred to remain nameless. Princes Harry and William seemed satisfied with the likeness nevertheless as they unveiled the sculpture in the sunken gardens at Kensington Palace on what would have been Diana’s 60th birthday. “Thank you to Ian Rank-Broadley, [garden designer] Pip Morrison and their teams for their outstanding work, [and] to the friends and donors who helped make this happen,” tweeted the happy princes.
Today, on what would have been our Mother’s 60th birthday, we remember her love, strength and character – qualities that made her a force for good around the world, changing countless lives for the better. pic.twitter.com/jsZXyUsG7q
— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) July 1, 2021