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.

Exhibitions and records of works of art

Prince Albert recognised the importance of photography to record and document notable exhibitions and works of art

CHARLES THURSTON THOMPSON (1816-68)

Albumen print? | RCIN 2864534

Photograph of a painted enamel platter by Pierre Reymond (1513-84). Created in 1565 and now in the Musée d'art et d'archéologie in Guéret (2009.2.59), the dish bears painted decorations in grisaille on dark background. The main scene depicts the Last Supper with Christ and his apostles sitting at a round table with a lamb in the centre. St John dozes in Christ's arms, while on the opposite side sits Judas, holding a moneybag in his right hand. The outer rim is decorated with a frieze of satyrs, fauns and imaginary beasts pulling chariots.

For the platter's reverse please see photograph RCIN 2864545.
  • Creator(s)

    Charles Thurston Thompson (1816-68) (photographer)

    After Reymond, Pierre (enameller)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Religion & Theology
      • Religions and faiths
        • Christianity
          • Life of Christ
            • Public Life of Christ
              • Last Supper
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs