Prince Leopold’s sitting to Watson was reported in the Court Circular on Wednesday 8 March 1854: ‘Mr W. Watson has had the honour of attending at Buckingham Palace for the purpose of painting a miniature of his Royal Highness Prince Leopold.’ He was dressed for his portrait in conventional wear for an infant of his age: a white lace dress of broderie anglaise with matching bonnet. He was described just over a month later by Queen Victoria as ‘a jolly, fat little fellow, but no beauty’ (RA VIC/Y 99/14). Signed, dated and inscribed on the reverse in ink: His Royal Highness/ Prince Leopold / Painted by / Wm. Watson / March 1854.