During the French state visit to the UK this week, Princess Catherine offered a brief, personal remark that quietly blended her academic past with her present-day role as a mother — and future queen.
On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived at Windsor Castle, where they were greeted by senior members of the British royal family, including King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Catherine. It was the first French state visit to the UK in nearly two decades, and one that carried significant diplomatic symbolism.
While most attention focused on the formal proceedings — the speeches, the ceremonial welcomes, and the joint appearances — one offhand comment from the Princess of Wales offered a lighter, more personal moment.
While viewing an exhibit drawn from the Royal Collection, which featured historic portraits and items of state significance, Catherine paused in front of a painting of young King Louis XIV of France. Smiling, she reportedly quipped, “I should know.”
A quiet nod to art history and royal motherhood
Those three words were simple, but they carried layers of meaning. On one hand, the Princess of Wales holds a degree in art history from the University of St Andrews — the very institution where she met Prince William. On the other, she is also the mother of young Prince Louis, her third child with the future king.
In that moment, Catherine seemed to draw an unexpected bridge between 17th-century French royalty and her own 6-year-old son — a modern little prince whose cheeky expressions have become a fan favorite during public royal events.
It was a remark that underscored her personal connection to the art she was viewing, not only through formal study but through lived experience. The St Andrews curriculum covers everything from medieval religious iconography to Renaissance portraiture — precisely the type of works featured during the Macrons’ tour of Windsor Castle.
Though Prince Louis didn’t attend this event, he has made more frequent appearances in recent months — most notably during the King’s official birthday celebration, where his playful expressions once again charmed the public.
A growing diplomatic presence for William and Catherine
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While the Princess’s aside offered a moment of warmth, the state visit itself was a significant event for Anglo-French relations. The Prince and Princess of Wales shared several photos and videos of the day on their official Instagram account, including a joint appearance with the French president.
“From discussions on our shared future to moments of reflection on historic ties, it was an honour to help strengthen the enduring partnership between France and the UK alongside Their Majesties and Président @emmanuelmacron today,” one post read.
Beyond the polished language of diplomacy, the event highlighted the evolving role that William and Catherine now play as ambassadors for the Crown — combining tradition, formality, and occasional flashes of real personality.
Sometimes, it only takes a few words — or one knowing glance at a centuries-old portrait — to remind us that behind the tiaras and titles, there are real stories, real people, and real connections being forged across generations.