The New Era Of David Armstrong-Jones: 2nd Earl Of Snowdon's Shock Divorce, New Love, And Thriving Luxury Empire

Contents

The 2nd Earl of Snowdon, David Armstrong-Jones, is currently navigating a significant and fascinating new chapter in his life, balancing his royal duties, a high-profile new relationship, and the continued success of his globally renowned luxury design company, LINLEY. As the only son of the late Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon, David’s life has always been a blend of aristocratic tradition and creative entrepreneurship. In late 2024 and heading into 2025, the Earl has solidified his position as a key, yet discreet, figure within the British Royal Family while embracing a fresh start following a major personal transition.

The cousin of King Charles III has quietly stepped into a new personal era, five years after his amicable separation from his wife of 26 years, Serena Stanhope. This period of change has culminated in a confirmed new romance and a sustained focus on his passion for fine craftsmanship, a dedication that has defined his professional career and secured his reputation far beyond the walls of Buckingham Palace.

The Complete Biography and Royal Lineage of the 2nd Earl of Snowdon

David Albert Charles Armstrong-Jones, 2nd Earl of Snowdon, holds a unique position at the intersection of the British aristocracy and the world of luxury design. He is one of the most senior non-working members of the Royal Family, maintaining a close relationship with the monarch and his extended family.

  • Full Name: David Albert Charles Armstrong-Jones
  • Born: 3 November 1961, at Clarence House, London, England
  • Parents: Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, and Antony Armstrong-Jones, 1st Earl of Snowdon
  • Titles: 2nd Earl of Snowdon, Viscount Linley (courtesy title until 2017)
  • Royal Connection: Nephew and godson of Queen Elizabeth II; First cousin of King Charles III
  • Place in the Line of Succession: Currently 25th (as of late 2024), though this position is fluid
  • Education: Gibbs Pre-Preparatory School, Ashdown House School, Bedales School. He later studied furniture making at Parnham House in Dorset, a path that cemented his professional future.
  • Former Marriage: Married Serena Stanhope (daughter of the Earl of Harrington) on 8 October 1993. The couple separated in 2020 and were subsequently divorced.
  • Children:
    • Charles Armstrong-Jones, Viscount Linley (b. 1999)
    • Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones (b. 2002)
  • Professional Name: David Linley
  • Key Professional Roles: Founder of LINLEY (1985); Former Chairman of Christie's UK (2006–2015)

A Royal Reawakening: New Romance and Personal Life in 2024/2025

The most significant recent development in the Earl’s personal life is his confirmed relationship with art advisor and consultant, Isabelle de La Bruyère. This public confirmation marks a definitive "new era" for the royal, five years after his separation from Serena Stanhope, the former Countess of Snowdon.

The split from Serena Stanhope, an Anglo-Irish aristocrat, was announced in 2020, ending a marriage that had lasted 26 years. The couple stated the separation was amicable, focusing on the well-being of their two children, Charles Armstrong-Jones, Viscount Linley, and Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones.

The new partner, Isabelle de La Bruyère, is a prominent figure in the art world, currently serving as the CEO of the Opera Gallery Group. Her background in fine arts and consultancy aligns perfectly with the Earl's own artistic and design sensibilities. The couple has been quietly dating since the summer of 2024, with their first public appearances confirming the romance. This connection to the art world is a natural fit, given David’s history as a former chairman of the prestigious auction house Christie’s UK.

Despite the personal changes, the Earl of Snowdon remains a committed and visible member of the extended Royal Family. He is frequently seen at major royal events, including the annual Royal Christmas Lunch hosted by King Charles III at Buckingham Palace. His consistent presence underscores his enduring role as a trusted cousin and support to the monarch.

The LINLEY Empire: Bespoke Furniture and Design Innovation

David Armstrong-Jones is known professionally as David Linley, a name synonymous with high-end, bespoke British furniture and interior design. He founded his company, LINLEY, in 1985, building it into an internationally recognized luxury brand.

A Philosophy of Superlative Craftsmanship

The enduring philosophy of LINLEY is rooted in superlative craftsmanship and a commitment to British design. The company’s products—which include furniture, luxury gifts, accessories, and complete interior design projects—are renowned for their neoclassical appearance and meticulous attention to detail.

The Earl’s passion is evident in the company’s signature techniques, particularly the intricate art of marquetry. This delicate process involves applying pieces of wood veneer to create elaborate patterns and pictures, showcasing the skill of LINLEY's professional cabinetmakers and joinery artists. This focus on traditional artistry, combined with modern design concepts, has allowed the company to consistently innovate.

Recent Projects and Continued Expansion

In the current market, the LINLEY brand continues to expand its offerings beyond standalone pieces. The company has recently launched new, luxurious fitted furniture options, including high-end kitchens, a natural extension of their bespoke design services. This move highlights the brand's capacity to deliver complete, custom-designed luxury interiors for an elite global clientele.

David’s professional background also includes a significant period as Chairman of Christie's UK, a role that further solidified his expertise and influence within the global fine arts and luxury market. His dual career as a creative craftsman and a business leader in the luxury sector provides him with a unique perspective, allowing him to seamlessly bridge the worlds of aristocracy, art, and commerce.

The Royal Cousins: His Role in the House of Windsor

As the son of a Princess and the nephew of a Queen, David Armstrong-Jones holds a distinct and permanent place within the House of Windsor. He is one of the few members of the extended family who maintains a relatively low-key profile while still participating in major royal events.

His presence at events like the annual Christmas gathering and other state occasions serves as a quiet nod to the importance of the wider family unit. The Earl’s children, Charles and Margarita, also make occasional appearances, continuing the family's connection to the Crown.

David Armstrong-Jones’s life is a fascinating tapestry woven from royal duty, personal resilience, and a profound commitment to the arts. From the shock of his divorce to the joy of a new relationship with Isabelle de La Bruère, and the continued success of his LINLEY brand, the 2nd Earl of Snowdon is proving that a royal title is no barrier to a thriving, creative, and evolving modern life.

david armstrong-jones. 2nd earl of snowdon
david armstrong-jones. 2nd earl of snowdon

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