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

Michael William Balfe (1808-70)

c. 1860

Albumen print | 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions) | RCIN 2913628

Photograph of a full length portrait of the Irish composer Michael William Balfe (1808-70) standing, facing towards the camera. He turns his head slightly and looks to the right. He holds a cane in his right hand and holds a top hat in his left hand.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Michael William Balfe (1808-70)

  • annotation: Mr Balfe [beneath work]

  • 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions)

    9.6 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    8.7 x 5.5 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • People
      • Musicians
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
        • photographs
          • cartes-de-visite
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