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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Landscape, Nature and Architecture

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

AIMÉ CIVIALE (1821-93)

Entrée du cirque de Zermatt

1859-68

Poitevin process | 26.4 x 36.1 cm (image) | RCIN 2370856

Photograph of the Matter Vispa River flowing down a rugged ravine. The winding road leading to Zermatt, visible along both sides of the ravine, is linked by a single-arched bridge that traverses the water. A single building, only just visible in the distance, marks the beginning of the town.

  • Creator(s)

    Aimé Civiale (1821-93) (artist)

  • 26.4 x 36.1 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Switzerland
          • Zermatt [Switzerland]
    • Geography
      • Physiography
        • Mountains
        • Rivers
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
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