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

WILLIAM BAMBRIDGE (1820-79)

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

c.1880 copy of an original of Mar 1856

Carbon print | 14.2 x 9.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2900068

Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Louise, later Duchess of Argyll (1848-1939) dressed as a Vivandière for the tableau, 'The Allies' performed at Windsor Castle She stands facing towards the camera and gazes to the left. She wears a hat, fitted blouse, full skirt and trousers.

  • Creator(s)

    William Bambridge (1820-79) (photographer)

  • Princess Louise/ as a Vivandière./ Windsor Castle. March 1856./ By Mr Bambridge.

  • 14.2 x 9.6 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (whole object)

  • 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.