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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Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

UNKNOWN PERSON

Carl Ruland (1834-1907)

c. 1861

Albumen print | 4.0 x 3.0 cm (image) | RCIN 2117424

Photograph of a half length portrait of Carl Ruland standing, facing halfway to the right. He turns his head slightly and looks towards the camera. He wears glasses, a striped bow tie, a light coloured shirt and dark coloured suit jacket and waistcoat.

The page has been signed by the sitter.

Ruland was Private Secretary and Librarian to Prince Albert.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Carl Ruland (1834-1907)

  • 4.0 x 3.0 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Industries, Crafts and Trades
        • Precision mechanisms & instruments
          • Spectacles
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
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