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

WILLIAM HENRY SOUTHWELL (1823-70)

Princess Louise, later Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939)

Mar 1860

Albumen print | 8.6 x 6.4 cm (image) | RCIN 2900263

Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Louise, later Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939), standing, facing towards the camera. She gazes to the left. She poses with her hands held together in front of her waist. She wears a patterned dress. There is drapery in the background, on the left.
  • Creator(s)

    William Henry Southwell (1823-70) (photographer)

  • Princefs Louise./ March, 1860./ Southwell.

  • 8.6 x 6.4 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert