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 Helena (1846-1923) and Princess Louise, later Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939)

Jun 1860

Albumen print | 7.6 x 5.1 cm (image) | RCIN 2900348

Photograph of a full length double portrait of Princess Louise, later Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939), and Princess Helena (1846-1923). Princess Louise, on the left, stands facing towards the camera. She looks downwards, to the left. She places her left arm around her sister's shoulders and holds a flower in the right hand. Princess Helena is seated, facing slightly towards the left. She looks ahead, away from the camera. She holds a book open with both hands on her lap. The sisters pose between two plinths. The sisters are dressed in a similar fashion.

  • Creator(s)

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

    Subject(s)

    Princess Helena (1846-1923)
    Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939)
  • annotation: Princefs Helena and Princefs Louise./ June.1860./ Mayall. [beneath work]

  • 7.6 x 5.1 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs