British Army Camp Scenes, Highland and Queens Regiments, 19th Century, Prints, Set of 2

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British Army Camp Scenes – Highland and Queen’s Regiments, 19th Century Pair, circa 1870 This is a compelling pair of … Read more British Army Camp Scenes – Highland and Queen’s Regiments, 19th Century Pair, circa 1870 This is a compelling pair of original 19th-century albumen photographs depicting British Army encampments, likely dating from around 1870. Together, these two photographs offer a rare and intimate view of life in Victorian-era military camps, showcasing both the structure and atmosphere of peacetime regimental activity in the United Kingdom. The first photograph, inscribed in pencil as "Camp of the Queen’s," presents a panoramic view of the Queen’s (Royal West Surrey) Regiment, one of the oldest and most distinguished units in the British Army. The image shows dozens of uniformed soldiers gathered informally among rows of tents, with some seated or reclining while others stand or converse in small groups. A small sign in the foreground marked “Queen’s” confirms the identity of the regiment. The arrangement of tents, central flagpole, and the relaxed posture of the men suggest the image was taken during field maneuvers or a training camp rather than active service. The overall composition captures the daily rhythm of camp life, making it a valuable document of the period. The second photograph, printed with the title “Panoramic View of the Various Tents in the Engineers Photographing Convoy (Aldershot Division Field),” depicts a smaller group of officers and engineers gathered near a photographic field tent. The presence of a man in Highland military dress indicates the inclusion of Scottish personnel, possibly from a Highland regiment or officer detachment. The reference to the Engineers Photographing Convoy strongly suggests this unit was responsible for technical documentation, mapping, or surveying — tasks often handled by the Royal Engineers during field exercises. This photograph was published by the London Stereoscopic Company, located at 3 Red Lion Square, London, which was active in the second half of the 19th century. The men depicted in this photograph appear to be members of a Scottish Highland regiment, based on several clear visual clues. Most notably, they are wearing the traditional blue Glengarry bonnets, each topped with a red pompom (known as a "tourie") and featuring a checkered or "diced" band. This style of headgear was standard among many Highland regiments during the 19th century. Another strong identifying feature is the tartan pattern visible on the kilts. The pattern resembles the Mackenzie tartan, which is composed primarily of dark green and blue, often accented with fine red and white lines. This particular tartan was commonly associated with the Highland Light Infantry (HLI), and later with the Royal Highland Fusiliers. Although the image does not clearly show the cap badge, historical context and visual style suggest a flaming grenade emblem may be present. This type of badge was used by both the Highland Light Infantry and the Royal Scots Fusiliers—two regiments that merged in 1959 to form the Royal Highland Fusiliers. This combined regiment retained the Mackenzie tartan and traditional headgear, along with the grenade cap badge. Taken together, the combination of Glengarry bonnets with red touries, the Mackenzie tartan kilts, and the historical context point strongly to the Royal Highland Fusiliers or one of their predecessor regiments. The relaxed setting of the camp, with officers lounging outside their tents, suggests this may have been a peacetime encampment or military exercise, rather than an active wartime scene. This identification adds historical interest and authenticity to the photograph, especially for collectors of military history or those interested in the traditions of the Scottish regiments of the British Army. Both photographs were likely taken during military field training at Aldershot or a similar camp, at a time when photography was becoming an increasingly important tool for the military. Together, these images offer a unique glimpse into British Army life and its growing relationship with visual documentation and engineering. Condition: Both photographs are albumen prints mounted on stiff board. There is moderate foxing, mainly to the mount, with some age-toning and minor surface wear to the image areas. The images remain clear and well-preserved, without tears or restoration. Original handwritten and printed captions are intact. Framing advice: These two prints are ideal for being displayed side by side in a horizontal double frame. Use a light off-white or cream mat to complement the sepia tones, and consider a simple wooden frame in dark brown or black. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the delicate surface of the albumen paper. A clean, archival presentation will enhance their historical and aesthetic value. See less