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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Record of historical events

Victoria and Albert collected photographs that documented the political and military events that defined a period of global expansion

ROGER FENTON (1819-69)

Commander Ballan

1855

Salted paper print | 19.1 x 15.4 cm (image) | RCIN 2500334

Photograph of Commander Ballan standing slightly turned to the left. He is wearing military uniform and two medals and is holding a long sword in his left hand. Blurred figures can be seen behind him to the right. Commander Ballan was a French soldier who served during the Crimean War.

  • Creator(s)

    Roger Fenton (1819-69) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Commandant Ballan (active 1855)

  • 19.1 x 15.4 cm (image)

    57.3 x 44.6 cm (page dimensions)

  • Commandant Ballan

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Industries, Crafts and Trades
        • Clothing
          • Costume
            • Uniforms
              • Military uniforms
      • Engineering & Technology
        • Military engineering
          • Arms (weapons)
            • Side arms (weapons)
              • Swords
    • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
      • Plastic arts
        • Numismatics
          • Medals
            • Campaign medals
    • Social sciences
      • Military affairs
        • Wars, Campaigns & Battles
          • Wars
            • Wars of the nineteenth century
              • Crimean War (1853-1856)
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
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