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 Lieutenant and Captain the Honourable Henry Montagu of the Scots Fusilier Guards, an infantry regiment of the Foot Guards. In 1831, the regiment was granted the title of ‘Fusilier’, which brought with it a higher status and a change of uniform.

In this painting, Montagu models the ‘full dress’ version of the new uniform, which was worn at ceremonial occasions such as levées. The bearskin and the red coatee were now standard parts of the uniform; the gold collar embroidery, gold tassel and bullion epaulettes reflect Montagu’s rank as Officer. The gold stripe of the trousers and the red-and-gold state sash were unique to ceremonial dress. Montagu also wears the Waterloo Medal awarded in 1816.