HM Government of Gibraltar has marked what would have been the 100th anniversary of the birth of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by acquiring a portrait of the late Sovereign for the people of Gibraltar.
The artwork, which depicts Her Late Majesty in one of the final official portraits created from life during her reign, has been secured by the Government as part of Gibraltar’s continuing efforts to honour the enduring bond between Gibraltar and the Crown. The portrait was formally presented on a date of particular significance, Tuesday 21 April 2026, being the day on which Queen Elizabeth II would have celebrated her 100th birthday.
The Government can also announce that it will further honour the memory of Queen Elizabeth II by commissioning a statue of Her Late Majesty to be erected at the roundabout by Hassans Centenary Terraces. It is intended that this new public monument will serve as a lasting tribute to a monarch held in deep affection and respect by the people of Gibraltar, and as a visible expression of Gibraltar’s loyalty to the Crown across generations.
The portrait itself is of particular historical and cultural value. It is a hand-signed, full-size archival reproduction of the portrait painted by British-Polish artist Basia Hamilton following a private sitting granted by Her Late Majesty at Windsor Castle on 6 May 2022, which became the Queen’s final portrait sitting. It was presented to HM Government of Gibraltar by Paul Albert Sabbagh, who offered the work from his private collection as a cultural gift to the people of Gibraltar.
“On the day that Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II would have turned 100, it is fitting that Gibraltar should pay tribute to her life of extraordinary service and unwavering dedication. This portrait is a moving and dignified addition to our national heritage, and I would like to extend my gratitude on behalf of the people of Gibraltar to Paul for his generous donation and for helping us mark this deeply meaningful milestone.“
“We are also proud to announce that we will commission a statue of Queen Elizabeth II, to be erected at the roundabout by Hassans Centenary Terraces, so that future generations may continue to remember with pride the remarkable Sovereign whose reign meant so much to Gibraltar.”
The Government will provide further details in due course regarding the design, commissioning process and timetable for the statue.
