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.

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Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

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

1860

Albumen print | 8.7 x 5.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2907755

Photograph of Princess Louise and Princess Helena. Princess Louise stands facing three-quarters to the left. She places her left hand on Princess Helena' shoulder. Princess Helena is seated, reading a book. There is drapery on the far left side of the photograph.

  • Creator(s)

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

    Previously attributed to Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

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

  • annotation: Pcss Louise  & Pcss Helena./ 1860. [beneath work]

  • 8.7 x 5.6 cm (image)

    9.6 x 6.3 cm (mount)

    23.1 x 18.2 cm (page dimensions)

    24.3 x 19.8 x 5.5 cm (album)

  • Princess Louise and Princess Helena, 1860. [Album: Photographs. Royal Portraits, vol.47]

  • Acquired by Prince Albert, the Prince Consort

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
          • cartes-de-visite
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