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

AFTER JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Prince Louis of Hesse, later Louis IV, Grand Duke of Hesse (1837-92)

1889 copy after an original of 1860

Carbon print | 23.3 x 17.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2906883

Photograph of Prince Louis of Hesse, standing, facing three-quarters to the left. He turns his head and looks towards the camera. He poses with his right leg crossed over his left, his left arm leaning against a plinth and his right hand tucked into his shirt. He wears a military uniform. There is a column and drapery on the far right side of the photograph.

  • Creator(s)

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

    Gustav William Henry Mullins (1854-1921) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

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

  • 23.3 x 17.6 cm (image)

    28.4 x 23.0 cm (page dimensions)

    29.5 x 25.0 x 5.0 cm (album)

  • Prince Louis of Hesse, 1860 [Photographic Portraits Vol.3/61 1856-1863]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums
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