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)

Princess Alice, later Grand Duchess of Hesse and by Rhine (1843-78)

Feb 1861

Albumen print | 9.0 x 5.9 cm (image) | RCIN 2900431

Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Alice, later Grand Duchess of Hesse and by Rhine (1843-78), standing, facing three-quarters to the left. She looks down at a book she holds in her right hand. She leans her right arm on a plinth.

  • Creator(s)

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

    Subject(s)

    Princess Alice, Grand Duchess of Hesse & by Rhine (1843-78)
  • annotation: Princefs Alice/ Feby 1861./ [lower right corner] Mayall. [beneath work]

  • 9.0 x 5.9 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert and Queen Victoria

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs