Sophie shares sweet moment with Prince William during Japanese state visit as they dissolve into giggles over Duke of Gloucester's joke By Elmira Tanatarova Published: 12:30 EDT, 25 June 2024 | Updated: 13:48 EDT, 25 June 2024 e-mail 8 View comments The Duchess of Edinburgh shared a sweet moment with the Prince of Wales - as they marvelled over artwork together. Sophie, 59, stayed close to her nephew, Prince William, 42, while they welcomed Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako for a state visit - which kicked off today - and admired treasured pieces displayed at Buckingham Palace. The mother-of-two jovially chatted with the heir to the throne as they took in works collated by the Royal Collection Trust.
One of the creations exhibited was an embroidered folding screen - by Kawashima Orimono Co - that featured a scene from the Tale of Genji, an ancient Japanese novel. In it, a group of courtiers in traditional dress can be seen playing kickball beneath cherry blossom trees - prompting the Duke of Gloucester to playfully quip: 'How did they keep their hats on?' The Duchess of Edinburgh shared a sweet moment with the Prince of Wales - as they marvelled over artwork together 'Richard!' Sophie exclaimed as she laughed and walked away with William, with the pair moving onto the next artwork together. Also chuckling, her husband Prince Edward, 60, then joined his wife and nephew, marveling at the stunning works on display.
Sophie donned a stunning summery ensemble for the outi.
