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Prince Albert used photography to document exhibitions and works of art

Francis Bedford (1815-94)

Works of Art Exhibited at Marlborough House, 1854: Cellini's Shield 1854

Albumen print | 13.8 x 13.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2800184

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Photograph of a circular shield embossed with four episodes from the life of Julius Caesar, including the Battle of Dyrrachium when Caesar's armour-bearer cuts off the arm of his assailant; the defilement of Caesar's robe by the blood of the sacrifice; the Battle of Pharsalus and death of one of Pompey's generals; and the head and ring of Pompey brought to Caesar on his arrival in Egypt. The long inscription applied in gold around the edge attributes the fall of both Pompey and Caesar to ambition, 'than which there is no more weighty evil'.

The shield is held by the Royal Collection (RCNI 62978) and is currently on display in the Queen's Guard Chamber, Windsor Castle.
  • Creator(s)

    View person page

    Francis Bedford (1815-94) (photographer)

    Subject(s)
    Benvenuto Cellini (1500-70)
  • 13.8 x 13.6 cm (image)

  • 'Cellini's Shield'; The Parade Shield

  • Commissioned by Henry Cole. Later acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
    Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • England
            • Greater London [England]
              • London [Greater London]
                • City of Westminster
                  • Marlborough House [London]
    • Social sciences
      • Military affairs
        • Wars, Campaigns & Battles
          • War operations
            • Battles
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Engineering & Technology
        • Military engineering
          • Arms (weapons)
            • Armour
              • Shields (armour)
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Decorative techniques & surface decoration
        • Beaded