Princess Victoria Melita (1876-1935) was Queen Victoria’s granddaughter. She was the third child of her fourth child Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh and his wife Marie, daughter of Alexander II of Russia. This portrait, together with those of Princess Marie (RCIN 400742) and Prince Alfred (RCIN 400746), was painted when the children were staying at Windsor in 1890. Marie was in St Petersburg during her mother’s last illness. They were known as ‘Affie’s darlings’, and helped to cheer up their grandmother. The Princess is wearing a brooch, decorated with Queen Victoria’s monogram, which was given to her by her grandmother. Signed and dated: Robert A Muller. 1880. Inscribed on the back with the names of the artist and sitter.