Sarah Clarke OBE was appointed as the new Black Rod in November 2017. She formally took on the duties as Lady Usher of the Black Rod in February 2018. Sarah Clarke was the first woman to be appointed to the office in its more than 650-year history.

Black Rod is a senior officer in the House of Lords, responsible for controlling access to and maintaining order within the House and its precincts. I was delighted to capture Black Rod on location at the House of Lords last month.

The most prominent duty of Black Rod is the summoning of the members of the House of Commons to hear a speech from the throne or the royal assent given to bills.

On such occasions the House of Commons closes its doors at Black Rod’s approach, whereupon he or she must knock three times before being admitted. The origin of this curious ceremony dates from the indignation of the lower house at the famous attempt of Charles I to arrest John Hampden, John Pym, and three other members of the House of Commons in 1642.

Throughout my career I have been commissioned to photograph a great deal of Political Portraiture. From local councillors to MP’s, Members of the House of Lords and even Prime Ministers.

Working between London, UK, New York City and Los Angeles, California. Rory Lewis Photographer Presents unique Portraiture using ‘direction’ and inventive ‘scenarios’. Rory easily encourages sitters to express themselves, creating natural, thought provoking portraits. Offering his services to a wide variety of clients from Royalty, to former Prime Minsters, Hollywood Stars and members of The Armed Forces. Rory is available throughout the year for portrait sittings in Central London & Leeds and Liverpool, and several times a year in New York and Los Angeles, California.