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

CHARLES THURSTON THOMPSON (1816-68)

Two katars

c.1853-5

Albumen print | RCIN 2369593

Photograph of two punch daggers, known as katars, photographed from above.

The katar on the right is Indian and exists in the Royal Collection, RCIN 62684. The handle decorated with gold inlay depicting plants and flowers. The blade has been chiselled to show a hunting scene of mounted riders facing a tiger and elephant.

  • Creator(s)

    Charles Thurston Thompson (1816-68) (photographer)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Decorative techniques & surface decoration
        • Floral decorations
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Engineering & Technology
        • Military engineering
          • Arms (weapons)
            • Armour
      • Agriculture and related techniques
        • Animal husbandry
          • Horses
    • Natural Sciences & Mathematics
      • Zoology
        • Animals
          • Mammals
            • Deer
            • Carnivorous mammals
              • Felines
                • Tigers
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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.