This pastel is described on the reverse: 'This portrait, by a Prussian Artist is probably one of the many similar ones presented by Frederica Duchess of York to the members of her former Household, on leaving her own country and was given George, Duke of Duke of York by HH Prince Hans of Glucksburg (Copenhagen: May 1896).

Frederick, Duke of York, was the second son of George III and affectionate brother of George IV. His life was devoted to the military; having experienced the inefficiency of the British army during their campaigns in Flanders (1793-4 & 1799, his own contribution mocked in the famous nursery rhyme), he set about reforming its administration in his role as Commander-in-Chief (1795-1809 & 1811-27).

One of a pair of the Duke and Duchess (RCIN 401262-3); the sitter here is shown head and shoulders, in a blue military jacket with a red collar, stock, powdered hair tied at the back.