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

LEONIDA CALDESI (1823-91)

The Honourable Louisa Gordon and the Honourable Eleanor Stanley

Jun 1857

Albumen print | 18.7 x 15.0 cm (image) | RCIN 2906644

Photograph of a full length double portrait of  Louisa Gordon (b. 1829) and Eleanor Stanley (b. 1821). Gordon stands on the left holding a handkercief and a hat in her right hand. She looks towards the camera. Stanley stands on the right, facing three-quarters to the left. She places her left hand on Gordon's shoulder. There is a column, a window and drapery in the background.
  • Creator(s)

    Leonida Caldesi (1823-91) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Louisa Frances Charlotte Ponsonby (1829-1910)
    Eleanor Long (1821-1903)
  • 18.7 x 15.0 cm (image)

    28.4 x 23.0 cm (page dimensions)

    29.5 x 24.5 x 6.0 cm (album)

  • The Hon. Louisa Gordon and the Hon. Eleanor Stanley, 1857 [Photographic Portraits Vol.2/60 1852-1859]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums