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

HILLS & SAUNDERS (1852-2019)

Prince Arthur, later Duke of Connaught (1850-1942) and Princess Beatrice (1857-1944)

1864

RCIN 2082587

Glass plate negative of a full length double portrait of Prince Arthur and Princess Beatrice. The princess is standing, facing three-quarters to the left, her visible hand by her side. Her curly, long hair hangs loose down her back. Prince Arthur sits with his legs crossed beside her, holding his cap in one hand.

The glass plate negative has been photographed showing the coated side and therefore the image appears laterally reversed. A print from this negative exists in the Collection, RCIN 2900948

  • Creator(s)

    Hills & Saunders (1852-2019) (photographer)

    Subject(s)

    Beatrice, Princess Henry of Battenberg (1857-1944)
    Prince Arthur, 1st Duke of Connaught (1850-1942)
  • Acquired by Queen Victoria 

  • Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs
          • negatives
            • glass plate negatives