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.

Portraiture

Prince Albert was an early adopter of portrait photography

CAMILLE SILVY (1834-1910)

Princess Alice, later Grand Duchess of Hesse and by Rhine (1843-78)

Jun 1861

Albumen print | 8.7 x 5.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2900527

Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Alice, later Grand Duchess of Hesse and by Rhine (1843-78) standing, facing a quarter to the right. She turns her head towards the camera and looks downwards. She holds a fan with both hands, placing it in front of her. She poses beside various flora and in front of a painted backdrop depicting a landscape scene. In the backdrop is a plinth with an 'A' on it.

  • Creator(s)

    Camille Silvy (1834-1910) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Princess Alice, Grand Duchess of Hesse & by Rhine (1843-78)
  • 8.7 x 5.7 cm (image)

    31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs