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

    GUSTAVE LE GRAY (1820-84)

    Les Zouaves (Camp de Chalons)

    1857

    Albumen print | 29.1 x 35.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2934241

    Photograph showing a camp of Zouaves, Moroccan soldiers off duty at Chalons, France. The soldiers are arranged outside their tents, located on the right hand side of the photograph. A small group of three soldiers stand on the left of the frame.
    • Creator(s)

      Gustave Le Gray (1820-84) (photographer)

    • Les Zouaves. (Camp de Chalons.) 1857.

    • 29.1 x 35.5 cm (image)

    • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

    • Subject(s)
      • Science, Medicine and Technology
        • Industries, Crafts and Trades
          • Travel Goods
            • Tents
      • Social sciences
        • Military affairs