Charlotte becomes the seventh royal baby to wear the historic Honiton lace christening robe.

It was the first glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with both of their children with Princess Charlotte melting the hearts of the nation on her christening.

But despite it being the nine-week-old's big day, her big brother Prince George almost stole the show by charming the crowds who had gathered to see the family on the Sandringham Estate.

The family of four made the journey to the church of St Mary Magdalene in Sandringham together for the private ceremony, attended by just 21 official guests including the Queen and Prince Philip as well as other close family members and the nine-week old princess's five godparents.

Charlotte, who is fourth in line to the throne, was baptised using water from the River Jordan and the 174-year-old silver gilt Lily Font, which was brought to Norfolk especially from the Tower of London where it is usually kept alongside the Crown Jewels.

Standing beside the font as Charlotte was christened were her five godparents, who along with Mr Middleton and Laura Fellowes, include William's close friends Thomas van Straubenzee and James Meade, and Kate's friend Sophie Carter.

During the service, members of the coronation sang two hymns chosen by William and Kate.

Charlotte was baptised today using the ornate Lily Font, pictured with the matching christening ewer (right), which is usually on show as part of the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London

 


Princess Kate and Prince William could give a master class in artful ways to honor the past.

The royal family orchestrated a portrait-worthy tableau for their daughter Princess Charlotte's  historic christening today. 

In addition to the outfit worn by her nearly 2-year-old son, Prince George – which echoed the one William wore to meet his then 1-day-old brother Prince Harry in 1984 – there were several other key nods to history.

Kate pushed her 2-month-old daughter in a Millson stroller used by Queen Elizabeth some 50 years ago for her younger children, Princes Andrew and Edward. And at the afternoon tea taking place after the christening at the Queen's Sandringham house, the family enjoyed slices of a tier from Kate and William's wedding cake saved for the occasion.



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