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

Horace Wigan (c.1815-85) in 'Boots at the Swan'

c.1880 copy of an original of c.1860

Carbon print | 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions) | RCIN 2913663

Photograph of a full length portrait of the British actor Horace Wigan (c.1815-85) standing, facing slightly towards the right. He turns his head and looks towards the camera. He is dressed in costume as a character from 'Boots at the Swan's. He appears to hold a lollipop to his mouth.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Horace Wigan (c.1815-85)
  • annotation: Mr Horace Wigan in "Boots at the Swan."/ Reproduced. [beneath work]

  • 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions)

    9.6 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    8.8 x 5.2 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

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