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

CAMILLE SILVY (1834-1910)

George Cooke (1807-63) in 'The Base Imposter'  

c.1860

Albumen print | 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions) | RCIN 2913545

Photograph of a full length portrait of the actor George Cooke (1807-63) standing, facing towards the camera. He holds a cup and saucer with both hands in front of his body. He is dressed in costume for the play 'The Base Imposter'. There is a mirror behind him, reflecting a vision of the back of his head.

  • Creator(s)

    Camille Silvy (1834-1910) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    George Cooke (1807-1863)

  • annotation: Mr. G. Cooke, in The Base Imposter." [beneath work]

  • 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions)

    9.4 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    8.9 x 5.8 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
        • photographs
          • cartes-de-visite
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