ALEXEY ALEXANDROVICH (1850-1908), GRAND DUKE OF RUSSIA Cabinet photograph of the Grand Duke in the uniform of a naval admiral of the Russian Empire, decorated with the Order of St George. Saint Petersburg: C. I. Bergamasco, Imperial Court Photographer, circa 1885 passepartout from the studio 16 x 11.5 cm Grand Duke Alexei Alexandrovich (1850-1908) was the fourth son of Emperor Alexander II and Empress Maria Alexandrovna. A member of the Council of State, Commander-in-Chief of the Navy and Maritime Department, and Chairman of the Admiralty Council, he was the last Admiral-General of the Russian Empire. Karl Ivanovitch Bergamasco (1830-1896) was a Russian photographer of Italian origin. He was one of the most fashionable and accomplished portraitists of the 19th century. Bergamasco's work won gold and silver medals at exhibitions in Russia and Europe. In 1863, Bergamasco became the 'Photographer of the Imperial Theatres'. In 1865, he was appointed 'Photographer to His Imperial Highness Grand Duke Nikolai Nikolayevich' (the eldest). In 1896, Bergamasco was due to photograph the coronation of Nicholas II, but died a few days before the event. At the buyer's request, we would be happy to provide a general report on the condition of the lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise prospective buyers to carry out their own inspection or consult a specialist of their choice for a full assessment of the condition of the lot. Descriptions of items provided in the catalogue or by correspondence are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as a definitive assessment. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD 'AS IS' IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE.