Danish royal family discloses select foreign gifts received in 2023

In February, the Danish royal family announced plans to make public the gifts received by its members. However, this disclosure only pertains to gifts from foreign leaders and dignitaries, not personal gifts. Recently, the royal house released a list of gifts received between February 7 and June 30 of this year, revealing a glimpse into the tokens from state and government officials.

Among the gifts, King Frederik received “two bottles of traditional Chinese liquor with greetings from the President of China” on his birthday in June. Meanwhile, Queen Mary was presented with a dog whip and earrings from the Greenlandic town of Qaanaaq during the couple’s visit to Greenland in July. India’s ambassador to Denmark also marked his departure by gifting the royal couple ties made of Indian silk, candlesticks, and a shawl.

The list also highlights gifts given to King Frederik and Queen Mary by the Swedish and Norwegian royal families during their recent visits to those countries. Norwegian King Harald and Queen Sonja gifted them a gala photograph, a glass platter, three books, and a scarf, while Swedish King Carl Gustaf and Queen Silvia presented them with a gala photo, two blue vases, two scarves, a set of earrings, and a bag.

Additionally, Princess Benedikte received “parts of the Christmas set ‘Stjerne Riflet Jul'” for her 80th birthday. Queen Margrethe received only one official gift during this period, which was a “mini bust” from a citizen. Crown Prince Christian was also recognized with a gift from a citizen: “seven books about Denmark during the occupation.” The royal house noted that gifts from private companies are generally not accepted. The complete gift list is available on the royal family’s official website.