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

Charles-Marie-Esprit Espinasse (1815-59)

c. 1859

Albumen print | 9.1 x 5.8 cm (image) | RCIN 2914027

Photograph of a full length portrait of Charles-Marie-Esprit Espinasse seated, facing towards the camera. He gazes towards the left. He poses with his legs crossed and tucks his left hand into his jacket.

Whilst the inscription states the work was taken in 1860, this is not possible as the sitter died in 1859.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Charles-Marie-Esprit Espinasse (1815-59)

  • 9.1 x 5.8 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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