George, Duke of Cambridge (1819-1910), Field Marshal; Crimea 1855

Roger Fenton captured this albumen silver print of George, Duke of Cambridge, sometime during the Crimean War. Photography at this time was more than just a recording device; it was deeply intertwined with Victorian ideals of empire, class, and military prowess. Fenton, though commissioned to document the war, also subtly shaped public perception. Here, the Duke, a high-ranking officer, is presented not in the thick of battle, but in a composed, almost domestic setting, reinforcing notions of British order and authority. It's worth noting the institutional context. Photography was still a novel medium. Its use in war reportage was a conscious effort to shape public opinion back home in Britain. To truly understand the image, we can delve into military records, personal letters, and journalistic accounts. What we learn will help us to see how the image was intended to shape public understanding of the conflict.