Prince Alamayu, son of Emperor Tewodros II of Ethiopia: 'Alamayou' 1873

Albumen print | 9.1 x 5.7 cm (image) | RCIN 2911722

Description

Photograph of Prince Alamayu of Abyssinia (also known as 'Alemayehu', 'Alemayou', 'Alemayu' and 'Alamaiou'), son of Tewodros II, Emperor of Abyssinia, in a head and shoulders length portrait, facing the viewer. The Prince wears a velvet jacket and matching waistcoat.

Prince Alamayu was brought to England by British army officer Tristam Charles Sawyer Speedy (1836–1910) following the Battle of Magdala in April 1868. He lived with Speedy on the Isle of Wight and was presented to Queen Victoria at Osborne House. The Queen took a great interest in the child and mentioned him often in her diaries. The multiple format prints of Prince Alamayu in the Royal Collection, including large format albumen photographs, cabinet cards and carte de visite, also indicate the great public interest in the orphaned prince.

Provenance

Acquired by Queen Victoria
People involved

Acquirer(s)

Search the collection View the person page Victoria, Queen of the United Kingdom (1819-1901)

Subject(s)

Search the collection Alamayu, Prince of Abyssinia (1861-1879)
Physical properties

Medium and techniques

Albumen print

albumen print

Measurements

9.1 x 5.7 cm (image)

9.7 x 6.2 cm (mount)

22.9 x 18.0 cm (page dimensions)
Groupings
Category
Photographs
Object type(s)
visual works
photographs
References

Alternative title(s)

Alamayou. [Photographs, English Portraits. Volume 70.]

Your share link is...