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

WILLIAM SOUTHWELL : 16 BAKER ST, PORTMAN SQUARE, LONDON

Charlotte Frances Frederica Seymour Spencer (1835-1903)

1861

Albumen print | 8.6 x 5.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2910713

Photograph of a full length portrait of Charlotte Frances Frederica Seymour Spencer (1835-1903) seated beside a table, facing slightly towards the right. She looks ahead, away from the camera. She holds a book open with both hands on her lap.

  • Creator(s)

    William Southwell : 16 Baker St, Portman Square, London (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Charlotte Frances Frederica Seymour , Countess Spencer (1835-1903)

  • annotation: Countess Spencer- 1861- [beneath work]

  • 8.6 x 5.3 cm (image)

    9.5 x 6.2 cm (mount)

    23.1 x 18.0 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

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