Vintage 7.25 x 12.75 crystal-clear W. D. Downey cabinet photo of Victoria seated at her desk reading a letter, signed in fountain pen, “Victoria RI 1899.” Signed just two years before her death, the Queen’s writing was placed at upper right and is of gorgeous quality. The piece remains in very good condition with a trimmed lower edge, light overall feathering to the signature, and a bit of trivial, scattered foxing to the background. The photographer of this rare memento was the first to take “moving pictures” of the Royal family. Consequently, one Downey called Victoria “the greatest patroness of photography.” RRAuction COA.
