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

    JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

    Princess Helena (1846-1923)

    Mar 1861

    Albumen print | 8.7 x 5.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2900464

    Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Helena (1846-1923) standing, facing slightly towards the right. She leans against a plinth beside her, resting her left elbow on the plinth. She looks towards the left. She holds a book in her right hand and has a lace shawl draped over her right arm.

    • Creator(s)

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

      Subject(s)

      Princess Helena (1846-1923)

    • annotation: Princefs Helena/ March 1861./ Mayall. [beneath work]

    • 8.7 x 5.7 cm (image)

      31.0 x 24.7 cm (page dimensions)

    • Acquired by Prince Albert and Queen Victoria

    • Object type(s)
        • visual works
          • photographs
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