The coffin of the Duke of Edinburgh bore just one wreath of flowers as it made its final journey – a bouquet of white flowers sent by his wife of 73 years, The Queen.
The discreet circle of blooms was placed on top of the Duke’s personal standard which was draped across his coffin. A black trimmed card nestled amid the petals.
The flowers included white roses, the flower for June, the month when Prince Philip was born. It also signifies remembrance, as do the lilies which were also used on the wreath.
A collection of spring flowers also dotted the collection with sweet peas, jasmine, freesia and wax flowers included.
In the language of flowers, jasmine means purity and strength while wax flowers denote lasting love. Perhaps most poignant is the inclusion of sweet peas which are taken to mean goodbye but also the message, ‘thank you for a lovely time’.
The flowers sat on the coffin along with the Naval cap of the Duke of Edinburgh and the sword, presented to him by his father-in-law, King George VI.
Prince Philip was laid to rest in the Royal Vault at the end of the funeral service as a lone piper played a lament.
