This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Children's albums

Children's albums

UNKNOWN PERSON

King Henry II doing penance

c. 1864

Albumen print | 10.2 x 7.4 cm (image) | RCIN 2117202

Photograph of a painting held at Canterbury Cathedral of 'The penance of Henry II'. The painting depicts Henry II wearing a crown and shorts, kneeling before a shrine to Thomas Beckett. Two monks stand beside him, about to flog the King. The painting refers to the public penance of Henry II in 1174.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Henry II, King of England (1133-89)
  • 10.2 x 7.4 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Princess Helena

  • Subject(s)
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Art
        • Paintings
    • Religion & Theology
      • Religions and faiths
        • Christianity
          • Christian church in general
            • Sacraments
              • Penance (sacrament)
        • Religious orders
          • Monks
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • England
            • Kent [England]
              • Canterbury [Kent]
                • Canterbury Cathedral [Canterbury]
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums