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

UNKNOWN PERSON

Wilhelm I, Emperor of Germany and King of Prussia (1797-1888) when Prince of Prussia

1858

Overpainted salted paper print | 23.6 x 20.0 cm (image) | RCIN 2906755

Photograph of a three-quarter length portrait of Prince Wilhelm, later Wilhelm I, Emperor of Germany and King of Prussia (1797-1888) seated, facing a quarter to the left. He looks towards the camera. He wears a Prussian uniform, with the Order of the Black Eagle.

  • Creator(s)

    Unknown Person (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    William I, Emperor of Germany & King of Prussia (1797-1888)

  • 23.6 x 20.0 cm (image)

    28.4 x 23.0 cm (page dimensions)

    29.5 x 24.5 x 6.0 cm (album)

  • William, Prince of Prussia, 1858 [Photographic Portraits Vol.2/60 1852-1859]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • History
      • History of Europe
        • History of Germany
          • Prussia & northern Germany-History
            • Prussia & northern Germany-History (William I 1858-1888)
    • Genealogy and Heraldry
      • Orders (honour)
        • Order of the Black Eagle (Prussia)
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
        • albums
          • photograph albums
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