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

CAMILLE SILVY (1834-1910)

George Byng, 7th Viscount Torrington (1812-84)

1860

Albumen print | 8.5 x 5.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2910708

Photograph of a full length portrait of George Byng, 7th Viscount Torrington (1812-84) standing, facing towards the camera. He turns his head slightly and looks towards the left. He rests his left hand and left foot on a balustrade located beside him. He places his right hand in his pocket. His top hat and cane lean against the balustrade. He poses in front of a painted backdrop and drapery.

Byng was Lord-in-Waiting from 1837 to 1841, 1859 to 1884, was also Lord of the Bedchamber to Prince Albert and to King William IV.

  • Creator(s)

    Camille Silvy (1834-1910) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    George Byng, 7th Viscount Torrington (1812-84)
  • annotation: ditto. [beneath work]

  • 8.5 x 5.3 cm (image)

    9.4 x 5.8 cm (mount)

    23.1 x 18.0 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

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