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

THOMAS RICHARD WILLIAMS (1825-71)

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

c.1880 after an original of 21 Apr 1859

Carbon print | 10.5 x 8.4 cm (image) | RCIN 2900177

Photograph of a full length portrait of Prince Alice, later Grand Duchess of Hesse and by Rhine (1843-78) standing, facing slightly towards the right. She turns her head and looks towards the camera. She holds a prayer book with both hands in front of her body. She wears a light coloured dress trimmed with lace, light coloured gloves, a strand of pearls and earrings. She wears the outfit she wore at her confirmation at Windsor Castle (see RCIN 2900174).

  • Creator(s)

    Thomas Richard Williams (1825-71) (photographer)

  • Princefs Alice./ at her Confirmation,/ Windsor Castle./ April 21st 1859./ Williams.

  • 10.5 x 8.4 cm (image)

    30.8 x 24.4 cm (whole object)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Religion & Theology
      • Religions and faiths
        • Christianity
          • Christian church in general
            • Sacraments
              • Confirmation (sacrament)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • England
            • Berkshire [England]
              • Windsor [Berkshire]
                • Windsor Castle