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

WILLIAM BAMBRIDGE (1819-79)

Thomas Batchelor, Page of the Back Stairs

1858

Albumen print | 12.7 x 10.6 cm (image) | RCIN 2906736

Photograph of a three-quarter length portrait of Thomas Batchelor seated, facing three-quarters to the left. He looks towards the camera. The caption indicates Batchelor is in the 5th year of his service as a Page of the Back Stairs.

  • Creator(s)

    William Bambridge (1819-79) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Thomas Batchelor (d. 1868)

  • 12.7 x 10.6 cm (image)

    28.4 x 23.0 cm (page dimensions)

    29.5 x 24.5 x 6.0 cm (album)

  • Batchelor, Page of the Back Stairs, in the 5- year of his service, 1858 [Photographic Portraits Vol.2/60 1852-1859]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

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