Queen Victoria has been represented far and wide in art. She sits outside both Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace in sculpture form. She is carved literally all over the place in the V&A (of course). Not to mention a million serious and stark photographs throughout several decades. However, there are a few pieces of Victoria that I love- Franz Winterhalter’s paintings. The relationship between Winterhalter and Queen Victoria has led to some absolutely gorgeous paintings. She has a softer beauty in them that we don’t often see, sadly. Today, I’m going to share two of my favourite Winterhalter paintings.
Queen Victoria and the Prince of Wales, 1846 (RCT)
The Royal Collection Trust has an unrivaled collection. (Turns out that having the purchasing power of the monarchy is an asset for art collection.) Why this was included in the Russia, Royalty, and the Romanovs exhibition, I’m not sure, but I’m glad it was. (Edward is in Russian style clothing, but can’t figure out why…) Winterhalter has a way with fabric and dresses, and this is no exception. Victoria is given the glamour treatment (for the 1840s), complete with a luxurious dress. And the five year old future Edward VII looks similarly angelic. Louise, Queen of the Belgians, introduced Victoria to Winterhalter, and he would go on to paint many court portraits during Victoria’s reign. This particular portrait was a gift for Sir Robert Peel!
Queen Victoria, Copy of 1842 painting (RMG)
You may not expect it when you hear “Queen’s House” and “Royal Naval College”, but Royal Museums Greenwich has an incredible art collection, as well. This is my favourite painting of Victoria, I think she embodies majesty in it. (The fashion with the full bustle is nothing to sneeze at, either.) She is wearing both the Order of the Garter insignia, as well as the garter on her arm. She also is wearing a brooch and a jewelled coronet from Prince Albert (as well as a locket of his hair). Because the image of her as a stodgy widow is so prevalent now, I love the youth and beauty that radiates from this painting.
Winterhalter and Queen Victoria: are you a fan?
Cheers,
The Historian
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