H.R.H. The Princess Louisa by John Jabez Edwin Mayall

H.R.H. The Princess Louisa 1861

silver, print, photography

toned paper

16_19th-century

water colours

silver

print

possibly oil pastel

photography

handmade artwork painting

oil painting

underpainting

men

united-states

painting painterly

watercolour illustration

watercolor

warm toned green

This carte de visite, a popular format in the 19th century, captures the youthful Princess Louisa, a member of the British Royal Family. Taken in 1861 by renowned photographer John Jabez Edwin Mayall, the image portrays the princess standing elegantly in a richly detailed gown, her hand resting delicately on a decorative object. The soft lighting and the subtle interplay of light and shadow contribute to the formal tone of this portrait, showcasing the technical skill of Mayall, a pioneer of photography. This piece offers a glimpse into Victorian-era portraiture and its enduring fascination with royalty and the artistry of capturing fleeting moments in time.