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Glass plate negatives

Albert and Victoria’s collection of glass plate negatives show photographers’ working methods

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Prince Albert (1819-61)

Mar 1861

RCIN 2082467

Glass plate negative of a full length portrait of Prince Albert standing next to a pillar. He faces towards the camera and looks towards the right. He places his left hand on the balustrade behind him.

The glass plate negative has been photographed showing the coated side and therefore the image appears laterally reversed. At least one print from this negative exists in the Collection, RCIN 2514757.
  • Creator(s)

    John Jabez Edwin Mayall (1813-1901) (photographer)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert