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)

Venus and Cupid

c. 1855

Albumen print? | RCIN 2864516

Photograph of an oval enamelled plaque by Léonard Limosin, created in 1555 and now in the collection of the Louvre, Paris (MR R 274). The work depicts a reclining semi-draped Venus, her left arm embracing the infant Cupid. The scene takes place in the woods outside the defence walls of an imaginary city.

  • Creator(s)

    Charles Thurston Thompson (1816-68) (photographer)

    After Limosin, Léonard (artist)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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