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

UNKNOWN PERSON

Heinrich Hermann Josef Freiherr von Hess (1788-1870)

c.1860

Albumen print | 8.7 x 5.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2913724

Photograph of a full length portrait of Heinrich Hermann Josef Freiherr von Hess (1788-1870) standing, facing towards the camera. He turns his head slightly to the right and looks ahead, away from the camera. He wears a military uniform with a cape. Various medals are pinned to his chest.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Heinrich Hermann Josef Freiherr von Hess (1788-1870)
  • annotation: Baron H Hess. [beneath work]

  • 8.7 x 5.5 cm (image)

    9.6 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    22.7 x 17.0 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

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