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.

Visit the Royal Collection

Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Princess Helena (1846-1923)

May 1860

Albumen print | 7.7 x 5.1 cm (image) | RCIN 2900302

Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Helena (1846-1923) standing, facing towards the left. She turns her head towards the camera and gazes downwards, to the right. She holds a book with both hands in front of her waist. She poses beside a balustrade. She wears a dark coloured dress. A dark coloured shawl hangs over the balustrade.

  • Creator(s)

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

  • Princess Helena,/ May. 1860./ Mayall.

  • 7.7 x 5.1 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert 

PreviousNext
PreviousNext
Policy links
Royal Collection TrustIn Partnership with

Royal Collection Trust is a charity caring for the Royal Collection and welcoming visitors to the royal palaces. We bring our shared history to life through world-class experiences that involve and inspire people, wherever they are. Income from tickets and retail sales helps us to conserve the Collection so that it can be enjoyed by everyone for generations to come.