Letter from Artaria & Co. of Vienna to Dr Ernst Becker explaining their delay in carrying out the Prince Consort's commission for the photography of works by Raphael in the Esterhazy collection, and announcing that the work has now been done and the glass

The letter expresses regret that Dr. Becker's letter of 31 May (see VIC/ADDA10/85/403) has not been answered earlier, and explains that the photographer originally selected for the work turned it down because he had no time to do it, and furthermore had expected to be able to keep the glass plates to use again.

Artaria then had difficulty finding another suitable photographer, as most are too busy with commissions for portraits, and Becker's new instructions [for the glass plate negatives to be sent to the Prince] meant that the costs involved would be different from before. They are pleased to report, however, that the glass plates have recently been successfully completed, and have been carefully packed and dispatched to the Prince, who they hope will be satisfied with their efforts to fulfill the flattering commission he entrusted to them. The company's bill for their expenses is enclosed (see VIC/ADDA10/85/413).

Becker added a note at the foot of the letter saying that he had acknowledged receipt, and had given Artaria a further commission to have the drawing 'Astronomy', no. 213 on p.512 of Passavant Vol. II. , photographed and to send the glass plate through the British legation; he would pay on receipt of the bill for this.

Related Material: For related material, see VIC/ADDA10/85/403 and VIC/ADDA10/85/413.