Photograph of Princess Alice (1843-78) seated side-saddle on 'Brechin', who stands in left profile. The Princess faces the viewer. A young boy, Willem Jerve Kotjie (1850-67), stands on the left by the pony's head holding the reins.

Born to an African father and Javanese mother, Willem Jerve Koetjie started work in the household of Princess Alice in June 1863 and was often referred to as 'Little Willem' by Queen Victoria. He died of consumption in August of 1867 and Princess Alice frequently expressed her sadness of the death of the 'dear good boy'.