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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Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

    UNKNOWN PERSON

    Major Howard Elphinstone (1829-90), R.E.

    1859

    Salted paper print | 17.0 x 13.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2906743

    Photograph of a three-quarter length portrait of Major Howard Elphinstone (1829-90), R.E., standing, facing towards the camera. He turns his head halfway to the left and looks ahead, away from the camera. He wears a military uniform. He holds a plumed hat in his right hand and his sword in his left.

    • Creator(s)

      Unknown Person (photographer)

      Subject(s)

      Sir Howard Craufurd Elphinstone (1829-90)

    • 17.0 x 13.7 cm (image)

      28.4 x 23.0 cm (page dimensions)

      29.5 x 24.5 x 6.0 cm (album)

    • Major Howard Elphinstone, R.E., 1859 [Photographic Portraits Vol.2/60 1852-1859]

    • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

    • Subject(s)
      • Science, Medicine and Technology
        • Industries, Crafts and Trades
          • Clothing
            • Headgear
              • Hats
                • Bicorne hats
      Object type(s)
        • visual works
          • photographs
          • albums
            • photograph albums
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