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

WILLIAM HENRY FOX TALBOT (1800-77)

Melrose Abbey

1844

Salted paper print | 14.5 x 20.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2600334

Photograph showing the ruins of Melrose Abbey. The photograph depicts a view of the south transept and eastern window from the burial ground, with some headstones visible in the foreground.

  • Creator(s)

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

  • 14.5 x 20.7 cm (image)

    30.6 x 23.8 cm (page dimensions)

  • Melrose Abbey [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]
              • Melrose [Scotland]
                • Melrose Abbey [Scotland]
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Architecture
        • Architectural design
          • Arches
            • Gothic arches
          • Buttresses
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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