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

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Leopold I, King of the Belgians (1790-1865)

1860

Albumen print | 8.9 x 5.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2907573

Photograph of a full length portrait of King Leopold I of the Belgians (1790-1865) standing, facing three-quarters to the right. He turns his head to look towards the camera. He rests his left hand on an ornamental pillar.

  • Creator(s)

    John Jabez Edwin Mayall (1813-1901) (photographer)

    Previously attributed to Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Leopold I, King of the Belgians (1790-1865)

  • annotation: The King of the Belgians. 1860. [beneath work]

  • 8.9 x 5.3 cm (image)

    9.6 x 6.2 cm (mount)

    23.1 x 18.2 cm (page dimensions)

    24.3 x 19.8 x 5.5 cm (album)

  • The King of the Belgians, 1860. [Album: Photographs. Royal Portraits, vol.47]

  • Acquired by Prince Albert, the Prince Consort

  • Subject(s)
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Photography
        • Photographs
          • Photograph albums
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums
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