Emily Chan
One of the portraits is of Mehmet von Königstreu. He was an Ottoman prisoner who was taken to Britain.
Once there, he took over the role of “Keeper of the Privy Purse” for King George I, which was basically the monarch’s accountant.
Another painting portrays the likeness of Marie Wedekind, Mehmet’s wife. They were believed to be the first interracial couple at the royal court.
By sharing the stories of the British royal staff, their humanity is able to shine through, allowing visitors to view them as more than just invisible palace workers. The exhibit at Kensington Palace in London will be on display until October 27, 2024.
