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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Exhibitions and records of works of art

Prince Albert recognised the importance of photography to record and document notable exhibitions and works of art

AFTER ARY SCHEFFER (1795-1858)

'Épisode de la retraite d'Alsace (1814)'

1860

Albumen print? | RCIN 2865018

Photograph of a work by Ary Scheffer, the prime version of which was created around 1824. Inspired by France's military withdrawal from the Alsace in 1814, the image depicts a group of civilian women and men interacting with armed soldiers.

Scheffer (and his studio) continued throughout his life to produce new works of old compositions on demand. His paintings were also widely reproduced as etchings.

  • Creator(s)

    After Ary Scheffer (1795-1858) (artist)

    Robert Jefferson Bingham (1825-70) (photographer)

  • Acquire by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • History
      • History of Europe
        • History of France
          • Alsace-History
    • Places
      • Europe
        • France
          • Alsace [France]
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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Royal Collection Trust is a charity caring for the Royal Collection and welcoming visitors to the royal palaces. We bring our shared history to life through world-class experiences that involve and inspire people, wherever they are. Income from tickets and retail sales helps us to conserve the Collection so that it can be enjoyed by everyone for generations to come.