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

CAMILLE SILVY (1834-1910)

Sir John Townshend (1805-90), 3rd Viscount Sydney

1860

Albumen print | 9.4 x 8.2 cm (image) | RCIN 2906832

Photograph of Viscount Sydney seated on horseback, facing three-quarters to the right. The horse stands in profile, facing right. Photograph taken outside against a painted backdrop.

  • Creator(s)

    Camille Silvy (1834-1910) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    John Robert Townshend, Viscount Sydney (1805-90)
    John Robert Townshend, Viscount Sydney (1805-90)

  • 9.4 x 8.2 cm (image)

    28.4 x 23.0 cm (page dimensions)

    29.5 x 25.0 x 5.0 cm (album)

  • Sir John Townshend, 3rd Viscount Sydney, 1860 [Photographic Portraits Vol.3/61 1856-1863]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Agriculture and related techniques
        • Animal husbandry
          • Horses
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Sports
        • Riding and driving (horse and animal sports)
          • Horse riding
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums
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