A Paris waxwork museum has unveiled its latest star attraction: a figure of the late Princess Diana, adorned in the iconic “revenge dress” she famously wore following public revelations of her then-husband Prince Charles’s infidelity. This striking exhibit, revealed on November 20, marks a poignant nod to the same date thirty years ago when Diana gave a groundbreaking interview to the BBC.
The Grevin Museum, akin to London’s Madame Tussauds, already features models of King Charles III and his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. However, until now, Diana’s presence was notably absent, despite the tragic connection she shares with Paris, the city where she lost her life in a car crash in August 1997.
The Iconic ‘Revenge Dress’
Princess Diana’s wax figure is dressed in a replica of the black gown by designer Christina Stambolian, which she wore in 1994 during a public appearance that coincided with a media storm surrounding her marriage’s collapse. The off-the-shoulder dress became a symbol of her resilience and newfound independence, worn on the same day Prince Charles admitted to infidelity in a televised interview.
“More than 28 years after her tragic death in Paris, Diana is still a major figure in global pop culture, celebrated for her style, humanity, and independence,” the Grevin Museum stated. “The gown became a statement of reclaimed self-assertion, a powerful image of determined femininity and renewed confidence.”
A Symbolic Unveiling
The unveiling date, November 20, holds significant historical weight, as it marks the anniversary of Diana’s candid interview with the BBC, where she famously remarked, “there were three of us in this marriage, so it was a little bit crowded,” referencing Camilla Parker-Bowles, whom Charles later married. This “sly reference” adds a layer of depth to the exhibit, intertwining Diana’s personal history with her public persona.
Unlike the wax figures of King Charles and Queen Elizabeth, which are placed in a gallery dedicated to heads of state, Diana’s figure stands among fashion and entertainment icons such as Jean Paul Gaultier and Franco-Malian singer Aya Nakamura. This positioning underscores her enduring influence in the realms of style and popular culture.
The Artistic Challenge
The task of creating Diana’s waxwork was entrusted to Paris-based sculptor Laurent Mallamaci, who faced the high-pressure challenge of capturing the essence of a figure so beloved and scrutinized. The Grevin Museum had previously considered crafting a figure of Diana during her lifetime but abandoned the project after her untimely death.
The exhibit is expected to draw significant attention, not only from admirers of Diana but also from those who closely guard her legacy. It serves as a reminder of her enduring impact and the complexities of her life, which continue to resonate with people around the world.
Looking Forward
As the Grevin Museum opens its doors to this new attraction, it invites visitors to reflect on the multifaceted legacy of Princess Diana. Her story, marked by personal trials and public triumphs, remains a compelling narrative that continues to captivate audiences globally. This latest addition to the museum not only honors her memory but also sparks dialogue about her lasting influence on fashion, culture, and the royal family.
The unveiling of Diana’s wax figure in the “revenge dress” is more than just a tribute; it is a celebration of her resilience and a testament to her unwavering spirit. As visitors flock to the museum, they are reminded of the enduring allure of a princess who redefined what it meant to be royal.
