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

WILLIAM SOUTHWELL : 16 BAKER ST, PORTMAN SQUARE, LONDON

Lady Emma Portman (1809-65)

c. 1860

Albumen print | 8.8 x 5.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2910777

Photograph of a full length portrait of Lady Emma Portman (1809-65) standing, facing three-quarters to the left. She looks ahead, away from the camera. She rests her right hand on a small table located beside her.

Portman was Lady of the Bedchamber from 1837 to 1851, thereafter Extra Lady of the Bedchamber.

  • Creator(s)

    William Southwell : 16 Baker St, Portman Square, London (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Lady Emma Portman (1809-65)

  • annotation: The Lady Portman [beneath work]

  • 8.8 x 5.3 cm (image)

    9.5 x 6.2 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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