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

    BRITISH SCHOOL, 19TH CENTURY

    William II, Emperor of Germany, when Prince William of Prussia (1859-1949)

    c. 1859-60

    Watercolour on card over a photograph | 2.1 cm (Support diameter) (support, diameter) | RCIN 420525

    A hand-coloured photograph, possibly by Henry Heath, who was paid for a number of photographic miniatures taken at Osborne House in August 1859: '2 Copies of Photograph Miniature of Pce F[rederick]. W[illiam]. V[ictor]. A[lbert]. Each 3 guineas' (RA PP/VIC/2/40/130).

    • Creator(s)

      British School, 19th century (artist)

      ? Henry Charles Heath (1829-98) (photographer)

      After British School, 19th century (photographer)

      Subject(s)

      Wilhelm II, Emperor of Germany & King of Prussia (1859-1941)

    • 2.1 cm (Support diameter) (support, diameter)

      2.7 cm (frame diameter)

    • Prince Friedrich Wilhelm of Prussia, later Wilhelm II, German Emperor (1859-1949)

    • First recorded in the Royal Collection during the reign of Queen Victoria

    • Subject(s)
      • Science, Medicine and Technology
        • Industries, Crafts and Trades
          • Clothing
            • Headgear
              • Hats
                • Plumed hats
      Object type(s)
        • visual works
          • miniatures (paintings)
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