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.

Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Prince and Princess Louis of Hesse

1862

Albumen print | 8.5 x 5.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2908086

Photograph of Prince and Princess Louis of Hesse; the Prince (1837-92) is seated at a desk, writing, Princess Alice (1843-78) stands beside him looking down, her left hand on his shoulder.
  • Creator(s)

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

    Subject(s)

    Ludwig IV, Grand Duke of Hesse and by Rhine (1837-92)
    Princess Alice, Grand Duchess of Hesse & by Rhine (1843-78)
  • 8.5 x 5.5 cm (image)

    9.8 x 6.2 cm (mount)

    22.7 x 18.0 cm (page dimensions)

    23.9 x 19.4 x 5.9 cm (album)

  • Prince and Princess Louis of Hesse, (Princess Alice), 1862. [Album: Photographs. Royal Portraits, vol.49]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Home economics
        • Furniture & accessories
          • Desks
            • Writing desks
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
          • cartes-de-visite