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

Landscape, Nature and Architecture

Technological improvements enabled Prince Albert to collect photographs of places that were significant to him

WILLIAM HENRY FOX TALBOT (1800-77)

Abbotsford

1844

Salted paper print | 14.9 x 21.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2600330

Photograph of Abbotsford House, home of Sir Walter Scott. The view shows a large walled garden and a tree in the foreground. Towers with conical tops are visible on the right hand side. The main facade with step roofs and an arched porch with turrets and the family coat of arms can be seen on left hand side of the image.

  • Creator(s)

    William Henry Fox Talbot (1800-77) (photographer)

  • 14.9 x 21.5 cm (image)

    30.6 x 23.8 cm (page dimensions)

  • Abbotsford [Sun Pictures In Scotland]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

    'Sun Pictures in Scotland' was available via subscription. In the list of subscribers, Queen Victoria is the first name listed.

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • Scotland
            • The Borders [Scotland]
              • Abbotsford [Borders]
                • Abbotsford House
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Agriculture and related techniques
        • Gardening
          • Gardens
    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.