When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
A Museum-Quality 19th-Century Photographic Masterpiece
Offered here is an exceptionally rare, original large-format albumen silver print by Charles Clifford (1819–1863), the preeminent court photographer to Queen Isabella II of Spain. This piece is a significant artifact from Clifford's celebrated series documenting the Real Armería (Royal Armory) in Madrid between 1858 and 1863.
Historical Significance & Subject
The photograph depicts a magnificent suit of "boy-sized" armor commissioned for the Spanish Infantes. The reverse side features a contemporary handwritten inscription detailing its royal provenance:
"Made in Pamplona by order of Philip 3rd when Prince & sent by him for the use of the Princes D. Carlos & D. Fernando."
The visible inventory number "858" reflects the 19th-century cataloging of the Royal Armory, making this a vital record of Spanish military history.
Authenticity: The C. Clifford Blind Stamp
This print features the authentic C. Clifford blind stamp (embossed seal) in the margin. This mark is the "signature" of Clifford's Madrid studio and confirms this as a lifetime print produced from his original 10x13" glass plate negative.
Technical Details:
Photographer: Charles Clifford (Official Photographer to H.M. Queen Isabella II).
Medium: Large-format Albumen Silver Print.
Paper: Original mid-19th-century thin albumen paper (unmounted).
Dimensions: Approximately 10" x 13" (Mammoth/Imperial scale).
Era: Circa 1860-1862.
