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.

Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

UNKNOWN PERSON

Alfred Sydney Wigan (1814-78) in 'The Sole of St. Tropez'

c. 1860

Albumen print | 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions) | RCIN 2913646

Photograph of a full length portrait of the British actor Alfred Sydney Wigan (1814-78) seated at a table, facing towards the left. He points to the left with his right hand and lens his left arm on the table. He is dressed as Honori Disart in 'The Sole of St. Tropez' and wears what appears to be a dressing gown and slippers. He poses in front of a painted backdrop.
  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Alfred Sydney Wigan (1814-78)
  • annotation: No 5. Do Do [Ditto] [beneath work]

  • 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions)

    9.6 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    8.6 x 5.1 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
        • photographs
          • cartes-de-visite