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.

Visit the Royal Collection

Exhibitions and records of works of art

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

CHARLES THURSTON THOMPSON (1816-68)

'Portion of Enamelled Coffer'; Reliquary with Charlemagne's arm (detail)

c. 1855

Albumen print? | RCIN 2864550

Photograph of a detail of the back side of an enamelled reliquary, created in the mid-twelfth century and believed to contain part of Charlemagne's arm (MR 347). The object is now in the collection of the Louvre, Paris (MR 347). For the casket's front view please see photograph RCIN 2864549. 

  • Creator(s)

    Charles Thurston Thompson (1816-68) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Charlemagne, Holy Roman Emperor (742-814)
  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Engineering & Technology
        • Containers
          • Caskets
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
PreviousNext
PreviousNext
Policy links
Royal Collection TrustIn Partnership with

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.