Archie steals the show in Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Christmas card for 2020

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's first Christmas card from the US is here, and in news that shocks no one, it's definitely original.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have released a festive seasons greetings with their 18-month-old son Archie as they mark their first Christmas since stepping down from their roles as Senior Royals earlier this year.

The card, that was posted on the Mayhew charity's social media accounts offers an artistic depiction of the family of three's Californian home life.

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Posed in the sprawling gardens of their new residence, the image captures Meghan and Harry playing with son Archie as he emerges from a cubby house - while their pet dogs look at them all lovingly.

A statement from the Duchess on the organisation's website reads: "This year we, as a family, have made donations to several charities with you in mind.

"From a local California organisation that helps families transition out of homelessness, to two of our U.K. patronages: one that supports animal and community welfare, and the other, a memorial fund for a cherished friend that helps to educate children and fight poverty in Uganda, we have honoured their work on behalf of all of us."

Both Harry and Meghan appear casual in jeans and a top, similar to the image they released last year for Christmas where son Archie arguably stole the show.

The family's pet dogs sit in the front of the frame, with Pula, the black Labrador, lazing in the sun.

The text on the card read: "Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."

The sketch is based on a photo of the family taken by Meghan's mother Doria Ragland, that was "taken at their home earlier this month," according to a spokesperson.

"The small Christmas tree, including the homemade ornaments and other decorations, were selected by Archie, and the tree will be replanted after the holidays."

Users flooded the card with praise on social media, widely agreeing it was "very different" and "very nice."

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"Lovely card, very different! Very sweet. Look at Archie and how happy they are," wrote one user.

"This is so unique and so cute!! Look at Archie!" said another.

Archie has not been pictured publicly since his first birthday in May, after Meghan shared a video of the pair reading the picture book Duck! Rabbit! To her son, in support of a Save The Children campaign.

The Christmas image evokes the candid and casual nature Prince Harry and Meghan Markle expressed in their 2019 snap, moving away from the traditional Royal Family festive season portrait.

In January, the pair made the shock announcement that they were stepping away from royal duties in an effort to be more financially dependent.

Due to coronavirus restrictions and ongoing rumours that a rift has occurred in the royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be celebrating Christmas away from the rest of the monarchy, in their new home in Montecito.