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

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Princess Helena (1846-1923)

c. 1880 after an original of Mar 1861

Carbon print | 8.7 x 5.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2900459

Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Helena (1846-1923) standing, facing halfway to the right. She turns her head towards the camera and looks to the left. She places her left hand on a plinth beside her. She holds a striped shawl over her right arm.

  • Creator(s)

    John Jabez Edwin Mayall (1813-1901) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Princess Helena (1846-1923)
  • 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