A photograph featuring Meghan Markle tending to a floral arrangement vanished from her As Ever brand’s Instagram account on Thursday evening, moments after its publication coincided with major royal news.

The Montecito-based duchess had posted an image showing herself beaming at the camera whilst arranging flowers, but the content disappeared shortly after Buckingham Palace revealed that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor would lose his princely status.

The timing proved particularly awkward as the Palace announcement confirmed Harry’s uncle would henceforth be known simply as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the former Duke of York.

Sources told the Mail that the duchess removed the cheerful post to avoid any perception of insensitivity during the breaking news about her husband’s uncle.

Meghan Markle deletes picture just moments after Andrew Mountbatten Windsor announcement

 | I

The Palace’s statement, released on Thursday evening, declared that “censures are deemed necessary” despite Andrew’s continued denial of allegations against him.

King Charles III has initiated formal proceedings to strip his brother of his style, titles and honours, with royal warrants being sent to the Lord Chancellor.

The statement confirmed Andrew must surrender his lease on Royal Lodge in Windsor, where he has resided for two decades, and relocate to alternative private accommodation.

Palace sources indicated the decision came entirely from the King and his advisers, without external pressure from Government or other royals, including Prince William.

Andrew Mountbatten Windsor will move out of Royal Lodge after residing there for more than 20 years | PA

“The process has been underway for some while, but there was a need to get it right in the face of some very big challenges,” an insider claimed.

Supporters of the duchess speculated online that the Instagram content had been pre-programmed for publication last night, but was hastily withdrawn once the Palace released its statement.

The overlap between Meghan’s social media activity and the royal announcement sparked discussion about the appropriateness of promotional content during such a significant family moment.

The removed photograph depicted Meghan amongst a floral display, posted as her lifestyle venture continues marketing its inaugural festive range launched earlier this week.

Meghan Markle stepped down as a working royal in 2020 | PA

The candles form part of Meghan’s As Ever Christmas collection | INSTAGRAM: AS EVER

The Christmas collection features Signature Candle No. 519, priced at $64 (£48), which promises to evoke “cherished memories” from her May 2018 wedding through scents of Moroccan mint, cardamom and tea leaves.

Another offering, Signature Candle No. 084, takes its name from Meghan’s August 4 birthday and combines water lotus, sandalwood and California poppy fragrances.

The range extends to a 2021 Vintage Napa Valley Brut at $89 (£67) per bottle, with customers required to order 12 or more bottles to bypass a $20 (£15) delivery charge.

Despite removing the initial post, the As Ever account has maintained its promotional schedule by sharing customer photographs featuring the new products.