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 little prince of her own.

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

It marked the first French state visit to the United Kingdom in over 17 years. Although the royal children were absent from the event, the Princess of Wales 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, the princess made a playful remark linking both Louis and her trained artistic eye.

While looking at a portrait of a young King Louis XIV, she 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. She 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. Catherine'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.

This state visit was a more high-level affair, though. On Instagram, William and Catherine shared several posts featuring photos and videos from the occasion. 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. It also highlights efforts to renew the relationship between the United Kingdom and France.

William and Kate had already made two earlier posts welcoming President Macron and his wife, and William was standing by the presidential plane when the French leader arrived.

The earliest post welcomed Macron in his own language. "Bienvenue Président @emmanuelmacron 👋," read the post, later shared by Macron's official account as well. It featured a video showing William and Kate receiving Macron as he first landed on British soil.

The second post, shared hours later, read "A pleasure to welcome Président @emmanuelmacron and Mrs. Macron to Windsor today 🇫🇷🤝🇬🇧". It included a series of photos of Princess Kate, Prince William, the French president and his wife, Windsor Castle, King Charles and Queen Camilla.

These posts showcase the subtle ways in which both William and Kate are starting to take on the more substantial responsibilities carried by the crown, especially when it comes to international relations.