Photograph of a full length portrait of Victoria, Princess Royal, later Empress of Germany (1840-1901). She stands, facing three-quarters to the left and turns her head towards the camera. He holds a posy in her left hand and places her right hand on a balustrade behind her. She poses in front of a painted backdrop depicting a mountainous scene. On the right is a large, patterned curtain and there is a set of steps to the left.

On 19 May 1857 the engagement was announced between the Princess Royal and Prince Frederick William of Prussia (later Emperor Frederick III). Numerous photographic commissions followed, including this session with the Florentine photographer Caldesi. He had photographed the royal family at least twice previously, including a visit to Osborne in May. Royal patronage transformed his career.

Text adapted from Victoria & Albert: Art & Love, London, 2010