In 1845, the Osborne estate was purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert with the intention of constructing a new mansion as a seaside retreat. The design itself incorporates a range of tastes, interests and insights into their personal lives seen through the Durbar room showing Queen Victoria's love of India. It was not until 1954 when Osborne house was opened to the public making George Brannon's print a key tool for highlighting the extravagance of the site and showing the estate to the public.
George Brannon (1874-1860) was a printmaker, engraver, and publisher who lived at Wotton Common, Isle of Wight. One of his most notable publications was his promotional travel book Vectis Scenery. This book initially consisted of 41 engraved prints and a written guide highlighting the beauty, history and environment of the Isle of Wight. Vectis scenery was published annually from 1821 to 1875 with Brannon being succeeded by his sons Alfred and Phillip, Brannon's work took place prior to the introduction of the camera making his prints the most effective way of highlighting the landscape on a large scale. The print has a caption which reads: 'To his royal highness, the Prince Albert. This view of Osborne (Isle of Wight), is by his Royal Highness's most gracious permission, respectfully dedicated by his obliged and grateful servant, Alfred Brannon.
This object was audited and researched as part of the National Lottery Heritage Funded Data Hunters and Story Gatherers project.
