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

ROBERT MACPHERSON (1811-72)

'Venus and Cupid'

1892 copy after an original of 1853

Albumen print | 13.3 x 9.1 cm (image) | RCIN 2905942

Photograph of a bas relief by John Gibson (1790-1866) showing Venus embracing the winged Cupid who kisses Venus.

The 1892 carbon copy print is pasted over the top of the original albumen print.

  • Creator(s)

    Robert MacPherson (1811-72) (photographer)

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

    John Gibson (1790-1866) (sculptor)

    Subject(s)

    John Gibson (1790-1866)

  • 13.3 x 9.1 cm (image)

  • From an album of photographs collected and arranged by Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Religion & Theology
      • Religions and faiths
        • Religions of antiquity
          • Classical mythology
            • Venus (mythology)
            • Cupid
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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