A large and impressive royal albumen Cabinet Card portrait of Queen Victoria (1819–1901), issued in connection with the Queen's Golden Jubilee of 1887, commemorating fifty years since her accession to the throne in 1837. The portrait is by the celebrated royal photographer Alexander Bassano of Old Bond Street, London, whose studio credit appears beneath the image. Queen Victoria is depicted seated upon an elaborate royal throne, wearing richly decorated ceremonial dress with extensive lace, jewellery, royal sash and orders, and her distinctive Small Diamond Crown. She holds a fan in her hand. Prominently displayed to the Queen's left is a portrait of her late husband, Prince Albert (1819–1861). Its inclusion adds an important personal and symbolic element to the composition: more than twenty-five years after his death, Albert remained central to Victoria's personal memory and royal iconography. Printed beneath the photograph is: “HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN 1837 – JUBILEE – 1887” together with: “A. BASSANO – OLD BOND ST. W.” The composition presents Victoria emphatically as a sovereign celebrating fifty years on the throne, while the presence of Prince Albert's portrait connects the public celebration of her reign with the enduring private memory of her husband. An impressive large-format royal portrait from the Golden Jubilee period, distinguished by its elaborate enthroned composition, Queen Victoria's royal regalia and the prominent inclusion of Prince Albert's portrait.
Auction 01: Auction 01 – Historical Letters, Documents & Autographs — Melis Antiques & Art