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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Glass plate negatives

Albert and Victoria’s collection of glass plate negatives show photographers’ working methods

      THOMAS PEARCE (ACTIVE C. 1850S)

      Balmoral Castle

      1858

      RCIN 2082976

      Glass plate negative of a view of Balmoral Castle from the south-east. The clock tower stands on the left with trees in front.

      The glass plate negative has been photographed showing the coated side and therefore the image appears laterally reversed. Prints from this negative do not seem to exist in the Collection, however a variant from the same session is represented by RCIN 2800817.

      • Creator(s)

        Thomas Pearce (active c. 1850s) (photographer)

      • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

      • Subject(s)
        • Places
          • Europe
            • Great Britain
              • Scotland
                • Aberdeenshire [Scotland]
                  • Balmoral Castle [Aberdeenshire]
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