Victoria Kamamalu, photograph by Charles L. Weed (PP-97-11-002, original)

Princess Victoria Kamamalu of Hawaii, Kuhina Nui Kaahumanu IV. Photograph by Charles L. Weed, Honolulu, Oahu, 1865 Albumen print 43.5 x 53.5 cm. Attained by the Bishop Museum through the gift of Victor S. K. Houston in 1942. Taken the year before her death, Victoria Kamamalu commands the viewer's attention. The boldness of the portrait is enhanced by its incredible size; however, it is Kamamalu's proud stature and her hat with its crown of stars that tell of her rank and social position.