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.

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Decorative objects

Albert and Victoria gifted decorative objects featuring photographs

During the nineteenth century, photographs slowly came to replace painted miniatures. Whereas painted miniatures were once a popular feature in jewellery, following the invention of photography in 1839, photographs became the preferred medium to use in jewellery designs. Prince Albert (1819-61) and Queen Victoria (1819-1901) commissioned and gifted a range of decorative objects featuring photographs, including lockets and bracelets. The objects mark and celebrate a variety of occasions, including weddings, birthdays and Christmas. Overwhelmingly, the objects include photographic depictions of the royal couple’s children, revealing their strong affection for their offspring.

 

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