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)

La Mer de Glace a la source de l'Arveiron

1859-68

Poitevin process | 26.4 x 34.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2370836

Photograph of the Arveyron, a tributary to the Arve River, springing from the glacier terminus of Mer de Glace in the French Alps.

  • Creator(s)

    Aimé Civiale (1821-93) (artist)

  • 26.4 x 34.6 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Natural Sciences & Mathematics
      • Earth sciences
        • Geology
          • Glaciers
    • Geography
      • Physiography
        • Mountains
        • Rivers
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
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