A large period albumen Cabinet Photograph of Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn (1850–1942), son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, by the celebrated British portrait photographer Alexander Bassano (1829–1913). The photograph is dated circa 1878. The photographic archive of the National Portrait Gallery, London, preserves negatives of Prince Arthur by Alexander Bassano specifically dated 1878, supporting attribution of the present portrait to this period. Prince Arthur is shown standing in the studio wearing an elaborate formal military uniform, with sash and decorations, and holding his sword. The imposing full-length composition strongly reflects the Prince's distinguished military identity. The reverse bears the photographer's imprint: “ALEXANDER BASSANO 72 PICCADILLY, LONDON W.” Alexander Bassano was one of the leading London portrait photographers of the Victorian and Edwardian periods, particularly noted for his portraits of members of the Royal Family, aristocracy, senior military figures and prominent public personalities. Prince Arthur was a son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. He pursued a long and distinguished career in the British Army and was created Duke of Connaught and Strathearn in 1874. He subsequently attained the rank of Field Marshal and served as Governor General of Canada from 1911 to 1916. An impressive period royal and military photograph in the larger Cabinet format, combining a full-length portrait of Queen Victoria's son in formal military uniform with direct studio provenance from Alexander Bassano's celebrated London photographic establishment.
Auction 01: Auction 01 – Historical Letters, Documents & Autographs — Melis Antiques & Art