Princess Catherine's Alleged 3-Word Joke About Prince Louis and Her Art History Background

A fleeting remark from Princess Catherine connected two very different worlds: her university days in art history, and raising a modern-day princeling of her own.

On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, visited Windsor Castle. Macron was welcomed by members of the British royal family, including King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and the Prince and Princess of Wales.

It marked the first French state visit to the United Kingdom in over 17 years. Although the royal children were absent from the event, Kate made a subtle comment that referenced both her youngest son, Prince Louis, and her academic background.

At Windsor Castle, the Macrons and the royal family perused items and artifacts from an exhibition featuring selections from the Royal Collection. During this part of the visit, Kate made a playful remark linking both Louis and her trained artistic eye.

While looking at a portrait of a young King Louis XIV, Kate reportedly quipped, "I should know."

Her comment appeared to be a nod to being the mother of another blue-blooded Louis, as well as a reference to her professional background in art history. Kate earned her degree from the University of St Andrews, where she met Prince William.

The art history course at St Andrews allows students to study artworks from the medieval period to the modern day, including extensive portraiture. Kate's keen eye likely gives her a unique perspective during such cultural outings.

Although Prince Louis did not attend this particular state visit, he has become a regular presence at recent royal events.

Just a few weeks earlier, during Trooping the Colour 2025, he rode in a carriage with his mother and older siblings and later appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony.

The event gave Louis another chance to showcase his playful personality. He was seen beaming at the crowds and waving, causing the public to erupt in loud cheers multiple times.

A month earlier, during the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, Louis joined the rest of the royal family to watch a military procession.

He charmed royal watchers by mimicking his older brother, dramatically pushing his hair out of his face in an exaggerated gesture.

These lighthearted moments have helped Louis gain a reputation as the cheekiest of the royal children. Although he has yet to make his debut on a royal tour, his public image continues to grow year by year.

During a previous royal engagement — the 2023 edition of The Big Help Out, the United Kingdom's largest volunteering weekend — Louis was spotted alongside his parents.

He spent the day participating in various outdoor activities at the 3rd Upton Scouts Hut. There, he practiced archery, roasted marshmallows, and even operated a digger with his father.

During that outing, the public got a rare glimpse of Kate's affectionate nickname for her youngest.

"Pop that in the fire, Loubugs," Kate told the young prince as she taught him how to dispose of his used marshmallow stick.

Just like during the state visit, Louis seems to bring out Kate's warm, motherly side — whether he's present or not. This tenderness adds a relatable charm to her regal poise and academic background, making her all the more beloved by the public.

On Instagram, William and Kate shared several posts featuring photos and videos from the state visit. One post was captioned:

"From discussions on our shared future to moments of reflection on historic ties, it was an honour to help strengthen the enduring partnership between France and the UK alongside Their Majesties and Président @emmanuelmacron today."

The message highlights the increasing role that the Prince and Princess of Wales play in the royal family's public and diplomatic engagements.