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

      WILLIAM BAMBRIDGE (1820-79)

      Wounded Scots Fusilier Guards who served in the Crimean War

      Mar 1855

      Wet collodion negative | 12.7 x 15.2 cm (whole object) | RCIN 2083128

      5" x 6" glass plate negative showing a group of seven soldiers from the Scots Fusilier Guards who were wounded during the Crimean War. Four are standing and three are seated. All are wearing military uniform including winter coats and Private George Biddelcombe, sitting to the far right, is holding a stick. Part of Wellington Barracks can be seen behind.

      This is one of the first portraits of wounded Crimean War veterans commissioned by Queen Victoria, and pre-dates Roger Fenton's arrival in the Crimea.

      The glass plate negative has been photographed showing the coated side and therefore the image appears laterally reversed. Prints from this negative exist in the Collection (e.g. RCIN 2500133).

      • Creator(s)

        William Bambridge (1820-79) (photographer)

      • 12.7 x 15.2 cm (whole object)

      • Commissioned by Queen Victoria

      • Subject(s)
        • Science, Medicine and Technology
          • Industries, Crafts and Trades
            • Clothing
              • Costume
                • Uniforms
                  • Military uniforms
        • Places
          • Europe
            • Great Britain
              • England
                • Greater London [England]
                  • London [Greater London]
                    • City of Westminster
                      • Wellington Barracks
        • Arts, Recreation, Entertainment & Sport
          • Architecture
            • Buildings
        • Social sciences
          • Military affairs
            • Wars, Campaigns & Battles
              • Wars
                • Wars of the nineteenth century
                  • Crimean War (1853-1856)
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