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

LEONIDA CALDESI (1823-91)

Prince Arthur, later Duke of Connaught (1850-1942)

c.1880 after an original of 7 Apr 1859

Carbon print | 13.9 x 10.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2900165

Photograph of a full length portrait of Prince Arthur, later Duke of Connaught (1850-1942), standing, facing slightly towards the left. He looks towards the camera. He places his right arm on the back of a chair. The prince wears the costume of son of King Henry IV, featuring a hat, tunic with pointed collar and tights.

Prince Arthur is dressed for the Bal Costumé at Buckingham Palace.
  • Creator(s)

    Leonida Caldesi (1823-91) (photographer)

  • Prince Arthur/ in the costume of the son of King Henry 4th */ which he wore at the Bal Costumé at Buckingham Palace,/ April 7th 1859./ *(From the last scene of Richard 2nd at the Princefs's Theatre)

  • 13.9 x 10.3 cm (image)

    30.8 x 24.4 cm (whole object)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Industries, Crafts and Trades
        • Toys and Decorations
          • Theatrical costumes