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)

Louis IV, Grand Duke of Hesse (1837-1892), when Prince Louis of Hesse

10 Mar 1863

Albumen print | 8.8 x 5.8 cm (image) | RCIN 2908119

Photograph of Ludwig, Prince of Hesse standing three-quarters right wearing Garter robes and insignia. 

  • Creator(s)

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

    Previously attributed to Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Ludwig IV, Grand Duke of Hesse and by Rhine (1837-92)

  • 8.8 x 5.8 cm (image)

    9.8 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    22.7 x 18.0 cm (page dimensions)

    23.9 x 19.4 x 5.9 cm (album)

  • Prince Louis of Hesse, March 10th 1863. [Album: Photographs. Royal Portraits, vol.49]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria

  • Subject(s)
    • Social sciences
      • Ethnology
        • Social customs
          • Marriage
            • Royal Weddings
    • Genealogy and Heraldry
      • Heraldry
        • Insignia (heraldic)
          • Insignia-Garter (heraldic)
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
          • cartes-de-visite
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