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

1860

Albumen print | 23.0 x 18.1 cm (image) | RCIN 2906886

Photograph of a near full length portrait of Prince Louis of Hesse, standing, facing three-quarters to the left. He turns his head slightly towards the camera. He rests his right hand on a helmet, positioned on a balustrade, and places his left hand on his hip. He wears a military uniform and carries a sabre by his left side. There is a column and drapery on the far right side of the photograph.
  • Creator(s)

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

    Subject(s)

    Ludwig IV, Grand Duke of Hesse and by Rhine (1837-92)
  • annotation: Do [Ditto] [beneath work]

  • 23.0 x 18.1 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