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

WILLIAM BAMBRIDGE

Joseph, Duke of Saxe-Altenburg (1789-1868)

1863

Albumen print | 8.7 x 5.4 cm (image) | RCIN 2908052

Photograph of a full length portrait of Joseph, Duke of Saxe-Altenburg (1789-1868) standing, facing three-quarters to the left. He holds a rolled-up paper in his left hand and places his right hand on a table. He wears a military uniform.

In 1817 Joseph married Amelia of Württemberg. They had six daughters.
  • Creator(s)

    William Bambridge (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Josef, Duke of Saxe-Altenburg (1789-1868)
  • 8.7 x 5.4 cm (image)

    9.8 x 6.4 cm (mount)

    22.7 x 18.0 cm (page dimensions)

    23.9 x 19.4 x 5.9 cm (album)

  • Duke Joseph of Saxe-Altenburg (uncle of the Duke), 1863. [Album: Photographs. Royal Portraits, vol.49]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria

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