A portrait of Queen Elizabeth II has been given pride of place at Mar-a-Lago, the Florida residence of Donald Trump, highlighting what the US President has described as his deep respect and affection for the late monarch.

The painting, depicting the Queen in her later years, now hangs prominently in the main dining room of the Palm Beach estate, a room frequently used to host high-profile political figures, donors and international guests. Its placement is widely interpreted as a deliberate gesture, ensuring that the Queen remains symbolically present at the heart of Mar-a-Lago’s public life.

According to those familiar with the decision, Trump was keen that the portrait should not be relegated to a private corridor or side room. Instead, he wanted it displayed where it would be seen by visitors from around the world. 

The choice reflects not only admiration for Queen Elizabeth II as a person, but also recognition of her historic role as the longest-reigning British monarch and a global symbol of continuity and duty.

Trump has spoken on several occasions about his admiration for the Queen, recalling their meetings during his presidency and praising her composure, authority and warmth. The portrait, commissioned shortly before her death, is said to hold particular emotional value for him. 

It is one of the final official likenesses created during her lifetime, lending it additional historical significance.

The artist behind the work is a Polish portraitist from London, Basia Hamilton, whose royal connections run deep. You can read more about her in our article The last official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II was made by a Polish painter.

The painter had previously been commissioned by Sir Mick Jagger, who later presented Trump with a reproduction of the Queen’s portrait as a personal gift. That exchange ultimately led to the decision to acquire and display the artwork at Mar-a-Lago.

Observers note that the portrait’s prominent display is unusual in an American political setting, particularly one associated with a former foreign leader. Yet it underscores the unique international stature of Queen Elizabeth II, whose influence and recognition extended far beyond Britain and the Commonwealth.

For guests dining beneath the Queen’s watchful gaze, the painting serves as a reminder of a reign defined by service and stability. At Mar-a-Lago, it stands not merely as decoration, but as a quiet tribute to a monarch who commanded respect across political, cultural and national boundaries.

Source: Express.co.uk

Photo: British Poles, Basia Hamilton private archives

Tomasz Modrzejewski