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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Photographs 1842-61

Albums compiled by Prince Albert, reflecting his beliefs surrounding photography

AFTER PHILIP HENRY DELAMOTTE (1821-89)

'Crystal Palace, Hyde Park, in progress of demolition'

1852

Salted paper print | 19.7 x 15.1 cm (image) | RCIN 2905914

Photograph of empty framework that once supported the Crystal Palace, home to the 1851 Great Exhibition. In the foreground are a pile of wooden beams having been deconstructed. In the centre, foreground, a man leans on a ladder that is supported against the upper part of the building's structure. Trees and buildings visible in the background.

  • Creator(s)

    After Philip Henry Delamotte (1821-89) (photographer)

    Gustav William Henry Mullins (1854-1921) (photographer)

  • 19.7 x 15.1 cm (image)

  • Collected and arranged by Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • England
            • Greater London [England]
              • London [Greater London]
                • City of Westminster
                  • Hyde Park [London]
                    • The Crystal Palace [Hyde Park]
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