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

DR HUGH WELCH DIAMOND (1809-86)

'Sir George Cowper ' (1806-56)

1856

Albumen print | 14.9 x 11.8 cm (image) | RCIN 2906628

Photograph of a half length portrait of Sir George Cowper (1806-56), seated, facing three-quarters towards the right. He gazes ahead, away from the camera. He is seated beside a table. A pile of book are placed on the table. Cowper poses with his left arm resting on the books and his left hand placed on his chin.  

  • Creator(s)

    Dr Hugh Welch Diamond (1809-86) (photographer)

  • Sir George Cowper/ 1856/ Dr Diamond

  • 14.9 x 11.8 cm (image)

    28.2 x 22.9 cm (page dimensions)

  • Sir George Cowper, 1856 [Photographic Portraits. Vol 1/59 (1853-1857)]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

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