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

UNKNOWN PERSON

John Poyntz Spencer, 5th Earl Spencer (1835-1910)

c.1860

Albumen print | 9.4 x 5.1 cm (image) | RCIN 2910711

Photograph of a full length portrait of John Poyntz Spencer, 5th Earl Spencer (1835-1910) standing, facing towards the camera. He turns his head slightly and looks towards the left. He wears a military uniform and holds an unsheathed sword in front of him. He poses in front of a painted backdrop.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    John Poyntz Spencer, 5th Earl Spencer (1835-1910)

  • annotation: Earl Spencer [beneath work]

  • 9.4 x 5.1 cm (image)

    10.2 x 6.0 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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