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 DOMENICO GHIRLANDAIO (1449-94)

The Apparition of the Angel to Zechariah

1858

Albumen print? | RCIN 2864376

A photograph of a preparatory drawing by Domenico Ghirlandaio (1449 - 1494) now in the Albertina, Vienna (inv. no.4860). The work depicts the archangel Gabriel appearing to Zechariah, who holds a thurible, to announce that he will have a son. Both figures stand in front of the altar of Solomon’s Temple. The original fresco can be found in the Tornabuoni Chapel in Santa Maria Novella, Florence.

  • Creator(s)

    After Domenico Ghirlandaio (1449-94) (artist)

    Attributed to Florence : Alinari (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Zechariah
    Archangel Gabriel
  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Religion & Theology
      • Religions and faiths
        • Christianity
          • Bible & Holy Scripture
            • Old Testament
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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