This bronze portrait bust of Prince Alamayu Tewodros was commissioned by Queen Victoria, possibly after the death of the young prince in 1879. It was presented by the artist, the English sculptor Francis John Williamson, at Windsor Castle in July 1880. It was sent to Queen Victoria's favourite residence, Osborne House, in the Isle of Wight, to be placed in the Upper Corridor.

Prince Alemayu was the only son of King Tewodros of Abyssinia. In 1868, following his father's defeat by British forces at Magdala and subsequent suicide, he was brought to England under the care of Captain Tristram Speedy. Queen Victoria took a personal interest in his education and upbringing, following his presentation to her at Osborne House.

The prince is shown in profile relief, wearing a tunic and a cloak wrapped around his body. The cloak is edged with a lion's mane, a symbol of Abyssinian princes.

Alamayu is a phonetic rending of the Prince's name which is the most widely used spelling. His name may also be found in English sources as Alamayehu, Alamaiou, and Alameeo. This bust is inscribed with the spelling Alamayu.