R-119 Prince Alexei Romanov - Russia

Prince Alexei Romanov was the sole heir to the Kingdom of Russia. He was pampered and guarded by his parents and the family not only because he was heir apparent to the Throne of Russia, because he suffered from a rare blood disease which could cause instant death if he fell or bruised himself in any way. Perhaps for reasons of this close observation by everyone, Alexei became neurotic and self-conscience. No doubt as he grew older, he realized his condition and felt the need for overt protection and care. He also became cynical as we see in this picture. As one can imagine for a boy of twelve years of age in this photo, he harbored a great many problems, two of which were the revolt against his father Czar Nicholas and secondly his personal health condition. Just these two issues alone would cripple a young boys' emotions and morale. In this picture the young prince looks very cynical. He did not trust his surroundings. That trust was restored only when he was with his father, Czar Nicholas.