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 | 7.8 x 10.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2600350

Photograph showing the entrance to Melrose Abbey south transept. The entrance is closed by a wooden gate. The south transept features large Gothic arched windows. There are flying buttresses on the right hand side of the building, and along the outside of the south aisle.

  • Creator(s)

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

  • 7.8 x 10.5 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
          • Buttresses
          • Arches
            • Gothic arches
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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