Dr Alexander Profeit was employed as the Factor or Estate Manager at Balmoral Castle from 1875 until 1896. Profeit had joined the queen’s household as medical resident at Balmoral in 1874. Profeit enjoyed a good relationship with the queen who would pay frequent visits to his home on the Balmoral estate. In June 1877, Queen Victoria attended the christening of Dr Profeit’s son Leopold, whom he named after Prince Leopold, the queen’s youngest son.

This portrait of Dr Profeit seated with John Brown belies the uneasy relationship that existed between the two men. Professional rivalries thrived at court where seeking the approval of the queen was paramount. Nevertheless, Profeit’s efficiency and his involvement in community matters ensured he won the ‘esteem and confidence of the Queen’.