Childhood

This charming study shows a small child in a frilly cap and frill-edged dress resting on a pillow. A label on the reverse of the frame indicates that the child is Victoria, Princess Royal, the eldest child of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Victoria was born in November 1840 and was created Princess Royal in 1841.

Painted in watercolour on card, the portrait is most likely based on an engraving of the young princess that would have been widely circulated at the time. It is set in a traditional papier-mâché frame with a large anchor and rope hanger more usually associated with naval portraits. The painting is in fine condition; the frame has the usual nibbles to the edges and some light crazing.