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

KING EDWARD VII, KING OF THE UNITED KINGDOM (1841-1910)

William Edgcumbe, Viscount Valletort (1832-1917)

1857

Salted paper print | 11.3 x 8.8 cm (image) | RCIN 2906720

Photograph of a full length portrait of William Edgcumbe, Viscount Valletort (1832-1917) standing, facing towards the camera. He holds a book in his left hand. On his left stands a small table with books on it. He poses in front of sheets placed as a backdrop.
  • Creator(s)

    King Edward VII, King of the United Kingdom (1841-1910) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    William Henry Edgcumbe, 4th Earl of Mount Edgcumbe (1833-1917)
  • 11.3 x 8.8 cm (image)

    28.4 x 23.0 cm (page dimensions)

    29.5 x 24.5 x 6.0 cm (album)

  • William Edgcumbe, Viscount Valletort, 1857 [Photographic Portraits Vol.2/60 1852-1859]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

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