This picture of Ira Aldridge includes a caption: Member of the order of Art and Science conferred by His Majesty King William 4th of Russia and holder of the Medal of Leopold and the White Cross etc. etc."

Ira found great success when he began touring continental Europe in 1852 and was showered with honours. As well as the accolades mentioned here he was also given the title Chevalier Ira Aldridge, Knight of Saxony.