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Prince Albert: his life and legacy

A major new digitisation project will explore Prince Albert's enduring legacy and influence

WILLIAM CONSTABLE (1783-1861)

Prince Albert (1819-1861)

5 Mar 1842

RCIN 2932488

During a stay in Brighton in March 1842, Prince Albert visited the photographic studio of William Constable where he sat for a portrait. While the first sitting was a failure Prince Albert persevered and returned to Constable's studio for a second sitting. This photograph is from that second sitting. Whilst significantly faded, the daguerreotype portrait presents an unmistakable likeness of the Prince and is the first known photograph to have survived of a member of the British royal family. Queen Victoria commented in her journal on the photographs, stating 'Saw the photographs which are quite good' [RA VIC/MAIN/QVJ (W) 7 March 1842].

  • Beard Patented


The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.