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

LEONIDA CALDESI (1823-91)

Prince Leopold, later Duke of Albany (1853-84)

1 - 1 Apr 1857

RCIN 2083155

Glass plate negative of a full length portrait of Prince Leopold standing, facing slightly to the right. He looks towards the camera and tucks one hand into his jacket. He holds a posy in the other hand. Photograph taken outside Buckingham Palace.

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 2900093.
  • Creator(s)

    Leonida Caldesi (1823-91) (photographer)

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Victoria

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Great Britain
          • England
            • Greater London [England]
              • London [Greater London]
                • City of Westminster
                  • Buckingham Palace