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

WILLIAM BAMBRIDGE (1820-79)

Victoria, Princess Frederick of Prussia, later Empress of Germany (1840-1901), and her son Prince William, later Wilhelm II (1859-1941)

Nov 1859

Albumen print | 6.5 x 4.4 cm (image) | RCIN 2900234

Photograph of a double portrait of Victoria, Princess Frederick of Prussia, later Empress of Germany (1840-1901), and her son Prince William, later Wilhelm II (1859-1941). The princess crouches beside and looks at her son who is seated in a chair. She holds a bell, or rattle, in front of him. There is a window in the background.

Photograph after a daguerreotype taken in Berlin.
  • Creator(s)

    William Bambridge (1820-79) (photographer)

  • Victoria,/ Princess Royal,/ Princess Frederic William of Prussia,/ and the Infant Prince William,/ Nov, 1859./ Bambridge after a Daguerreotype/ done at Berlin.

  • 6.5 x 4.4 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Natural Sciences & Mathematics
      • Zoology
        • Animals
          • Mammals
            • Humans
              • Babies (human)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Industries, Crafts and Trades
        • Toys and Decorations
          • Toys
            • Rattles