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

Arthur Algernon Capel, Earl of Essex (1803-79)

c. 1860

Albumen print | 8.6 x 5.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2911171

Photograph of a full length portrait of the Earl of Essex standing, facing halfway towards the left. He turns his head slightly and looks towards the camera. He places his left hand on the back of a chair and holds a cane in his right hand.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Arthur Capell, 6th Earl of Essex (1803-79)
  • 8.6 x 5.5 cm (image)

    9.5 x 6.3 cm (image)

    23.0 x 18.0 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
        • photographs