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.

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Landscape, Nature and Architecture

Technological improvements enabled Prince Albert to collect photographs of places that were significant to him

      UNKNOWN PERSON

      Bassin Napoleon at Cherbourg, before the water was let in

      1858

      Albumen print | 19.3 x 25.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2935018

      Photograph of a dry dock prior to being flooded. There are warehouses and an ornate arch in the distant background. There is a large ship on the far left side of the photograph.

      • Creator(s)

        Unknown Person (photographer)

      • annotation: "Bassin Napoleon", at Cherbourg, before the water was let in. 1858. [beneath work]

      • 19.3 x 25.5 cm (image)

        30.8 x 38.6 cm (mount)

      • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

      • Subject(s)
        • Places
          • Europe
            • France
              • Normandy [France]
                • Cherbourg [Manche]
        Object type(s)
          • visual works
            • photographs
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