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.

Glass plate negatives

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

JOHN JABEZ EDWIN MAYALL (1813-1901)

Prince Albert (1819-61)

Mar 1861

RCIN 2082668

Glass plate negative of a full length portrait of Prince Albert standing next to a pillar, facing three-quarters to the right. He holds a walking stick and top hat in front of his body. 

The glass plate negative has been photographed showing the coated side and therefore the image appears laterally reversed. At least two prints from this negative exist in the Collection, RCIN 2914955 and 2105672. For a hand-coloured version, see RCIN 2105671. 
  • Creator(s)

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

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert 

  • Subject(s)
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Industries, Crafts and Trades
        • Clothing
          • Costume-Evening Dress(male)
            • Top hats
        • Travel Goods
          • Walking sticks