Discover Prince Albert’s passion for the work of Raphael
Discover Prince Albert’s passion for the work of Raphael
Watercolour on ivory laid on parchment affixed to board | 45.2 x 33.7 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external) | RCIN 406891
Queen Victoria commissioned this unusually large miniature for Albert’s birthday (26 August) later that same year. The Queen is portrayed in the guise of a Madonna, with her daughter Princess Helena (held by her mother) as the Christ Child and Prince Alfred standing beside them in the role of St John the Baptist. The inspiration is clearly Raphael’s tender depictions of the Virgin and Child. Victoria recorded in her journal that Albert was ’delighted’ with his gifts from her.