A significant piece of Windsor Castle's history has been lovingly restored to its rightful place. An exquisite marble sculpture of Prince Albert, created during Queen Victoria's reign, has been returned to the Grand Corridor after an absence of more than eight decades.
The sculpture, crafted by Swiss artist Emil Wolff in 1867, depicts the Prince Consort in a classical Roman style. It was originally commissioned as a poignant tribute following Albert's untimely death from typhoid in 1861, a loss that plunged Queen Victoria into deep mourning.
A Royal Residence Restored
For years, the bust's whereabouts were unknown, a missing piece of the castle's elaborate decorative scheme. Its recent rediscovery and return mark the culmination of a meticulous effort to restore the Grand Corridor to its original Victorian splendour. This corridor, a grand processional route within the castle, is once again complete with this symbol of Victoria's enduring devotion.
"The return of Prince Albert’s sculpture allows us to appreciate the Grand Corridor as it was intended," said a Royal Collection Trust spokesperson. "It’s a powerful visual reminder of the Prince’s influence and the queen’s profound grief, which shaped the monarchy itself."
A Glimpse into Victorian Mourning
The sculpture is more than just a work of art; it is a historical artifact that speaks to the customs of the era. Its prominent placement underscores how Albert's memory was kept alive throughout the castle, which served as Victoria's primary retreat during her widowhood. Visitors can now see the bust alongside other royal portraits, offering a deeper understanding of the period's personal and political landscape.
The sculpture's homecoming enhances the visitor experience at Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of His Majesty The King. It adds another layer to the rich tapestry of history on display, connecting the present-day monarchy to its poignant past.
