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.

Record of historical events

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

MAYER & PIERSON

General Adolphe Niel (1802-69)

1854-6

Albumen print | 19.9 x 15.3 cm (image) | RCIN 2500072

Photograph of General Adolphe Niel standing facing slightly left with his right hand partly tucked into his jacket. He is wearing military uniform with epaulets, a sash and multiple items of insignia. His bicorn hat is tucked under his left arm and he is holding a sword in his left hand. The photograph is signed in the lower right corner.

General Adolphe Niel served in a number of conflicts including the Siege of Rome and the Crimean War.
  • Creator(s)

    Mayer & Pierson (photographer)

  • 19.9 x 15.3 cm (image)

    29.6 x 23.1 cm (page dimensions)

  • General Adolphe Niel, Aide de Camp, to Emperor & assumed command of Engineers, May 1855 [in Crimean Officers Portraits, 1854 - 1856]

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Industries, Crafts and Trades
        • Clothing
          • Costume
            • Uniforms
              • Military uniforms
    • Social sciences
      • Military affairs
        • Wars, Campaigns & Battles
          • Wars
            • Wars of the nineteenth century
              • Crimean War (1853-1856)