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

CAMILLE SILVY (1834-1910)

Thomas Frederick Robson (c. 1822-64) in 'Boots at the Swan'

c. 1860

Albumen print | 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions) | RCIN 2913596

Photograph of a full length portrait of the actor Thomas Frederick Robson (c. 1822-64) leaning against a table. He turns his head and looks towards the camera. He is dressed as a character in 'Boots at the Swan'.

  • Creator(s)

    Camille Silvy (1834-1910) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Thomas Frederick Robson (1821-64)
  • annotation: Mr Robson, in "Boots at the Swan". [beneath work]

  • 23.1 x 17.5 cm (page dimensions)

    9.4 x 6.2 cm (mount)

    8.8 x 5.8 cm (image)

  • Acquired by Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • albums
          • photograph albums
        • photographs
          • cartes-de-visite