During the period of peace following the Napoleonic Wars, increasingly elaborate (and often quite impractical) military attire was devised, particularly by George IV. By the time William IV came to the throne in 1830, uniforms had become too expensive and were simplified and adapted once again. The result of these changes was codified and promulgated in the 1831 Dress Regulations. These paintings were intended to provide a visual record of the recent changes to military dress. Their value is not only historical, however, but also aesthetic: Drahonet produces lively, slightly elongated figures, capturing their facial expressions and setting them in a variety of organic poses.

Each painting in the series depicts a single figure against a neutral background. Although their uniform and accoutrements are the focus, the sitters are often identified by name, as well as regiment and rank. Shown here is Pioneer-Corporal William Swiffling of the Coldstream Guards, an infantry regiment named after the town on the Scottish border where they were assembled in the 17th century. Pioneers were specifically responsible for construction and demolition tasks of fortifications and obstacles, and often marched in front of the rest of the regiment to clear the way.

The Pioneer-Corporal was the most senior of the 11 Coldstream Guard pioneers. Here Drahonet poses Swiffling in a moment of action, wielding an axe at a wooden post. He wears the red coatee, bearskin and white summer trousers newly part of the Coldstream uniform (see 406928), though much of this is obscured by the leather apron, calfskin knapsack and various other cases, pouches and slings containing tools. His curved billhook is also visible on his back, while one of his saws leans against the wooden post.