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.

Memorial works

Following Albert’s premature death, Victoria commissioned the creation of photographs and decorative objects that memorialised her beloved husband

AFTER MATTHEW NOBLE (1818-76)

From the Sketch of the Statue for Manchester

c. 1867

Albumen print | 26.3 x 15.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2800255

Photograph of a full length sculpture of Prince Albert (1819-61), seen facing slightly towards the left. Prince Albert wears the robes of the garter.

The pedestal is inscribed with: 'ALBERT/THE/GREAT/AND/GOOD' and also features an inscription of Prince Albert's own words, reading: 'THE VISITINGS OF THE ALMIGHTY/CAN BE REALISED ONLY BY PEACE, LOVE, AND READY ASSISTANCE/NOT ONLY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS, BUT BETWEEN THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH'.

The statue is currently positioned in the Prince Albert memorial in Albert Square, Manchester.
  • Creator(s)

    After Matthew Noble (1818-76) (sculptor)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Matthew Noble (1818-76)
    Prince Albert, Prince Consort (1819-61)
  • 26.3 x 15.6 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria

  • Subject(s)
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Plastic arts
        • Sculpture
          • Statues
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • England
            • Greater Manchester [England]
              • Manchester [Greater Manchester]
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums