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

Ludwig III, Grand Duke of Hesse and by Rhine (1806-77)

1861

Albumen print | 8.9 x 5.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2907872

Photograph of Ludwig III, Grand Duke of Hesse and by Rhine, standing and facing towards the camera. He turns his head slightly towards the left and gazes ahead, away from the camera. He wears a military uniform and holds a hat in his right hand. He rests his left hand on a plinth.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Ludwig III, Grand Duke of Hesse and by Rhine (1806-77)

  • annotation: The Grand duke of Hesse. 1861. [beneath work]

  • 8.9 x 5.7 cm (image)

    9.7 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    23.0 x 18.2 cm (page dimensions)

    24.2 x 20.0 x 5.5 cm (album)

  • The Grand Duke of Hesse, 1861. [Album: Photographs. Royal Portraits, vol.48]

  • Acquired by Prince Albert, the Prince Consort

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