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)

    c. 1880 after an original of Mar 1861

    Carbon print | 8.7 x 5.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2900467

    Photograph of a full length portrait of Princess Helena (1846-1923) standing, facing towards the camera. She leans her left arm on a plinth beside her and places her left hand to her face. She holds a book in front of her with her right hand. Princess Helena gazes downwards, to the left. She holds a dark lace 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
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