Why does Queen Victoria not smile in pictures?

The idea was the Absolute Monarch was a solemn, serious ( dead-serious) sort of mien and Victoria cultivated this ideal in posed pictures. The idea is still current with of all things Russian Icons, where a face-forward posture is all but mandated and no visible show of emotion except possibley compassion. the modern Icon of Saint ( as she is in the Russian Orthodox Church) Anastasia in choir robes and solemnly facing the artist is a good, modern example. Perhaps the idea dates to the implacable and inscrutable Greek Gods and their classic portrature. With Anastasia it is very well-done, Your Highness!