The First Catholic Bishop to Play a Formal Role in a British Coronation: Cardinal Vincent Nichols Blesses King Charles III, Photographed by Rory Lewis

in , , , , , , ,

The First Catholic Bishop to Play a Formal Role in a British Coronation: Cardinal Vincent Nichols Blesses King Charles III, Photographed by Rory Lewis (London Portrait Photographer)

On May 6th, history will be made when Cardinal Vincent Nichols blesses King Charles III during the Coronation ceremony in Westminster Abbey. This marks the first time since the Reformation that a Catholic bishop will play a formal role in the British monarchy's Coronation. As the highest-ranking member of the Catholic Church in England & Wales, Cardinal Nichols' involvement is significant and symbolic.

Renowned photographer Rory Lewis had the opportunity to capture Cardinal Nichols in a unique sitting at the Cardinal's Palace attached to Westminster Cathedral. Inspired by Renaissance portraits of cardinals painted by Raphael and Caravaggio, Lewis sought to create his own Chiaroscuro depiction of the Cardinal. The sitting lasted two hours, during which Lewis and Cardinal Nichols discussed Renaissance art and took a tour of the palace.

Cardinal Nichols was created a Cardinal Priest by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome on February 22nd, 2014. He was designated the titular Church of St. Alphonsus Liguori, a neo-Gothic church cared for by the Redemptorists. This church is best known for housing the icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a gift given to the Redemptorists by Pope Pius IX in 1866.

Rory Lewis is a renowned portrait photographer who presents unique portraiture using direction and inventive scenarios. He has worked with a wide variety of clients, from royalty and former prime ministers to Hollywood stars and members of the armed forces. Lewis's expertise and approach make it easy for sitters to express themselves and create natural, thought-provoking portraits.

This unique sitting with Cardinal Nichols at the Cardinal's Palace is just one example of Lewis's work as a top portrait photographer in London and New York City. His availability throughout the year allows for portrait sittings with clients from all walks of life, and his ability to capture the essence of his subjects is truly remarkable.