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 Drummer William Cann 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, Drahonet has conjured lantern-illuminated darkness to illustrate, as the inscription relays, the ‘Night Rounds’ (a duty for which the drum was not usually carried, though it is included here to give a full sense of the figure’s uniform and accoutrements). Although the neutral background is retained, Cann’s uniform is cast in shadow and a pale moon and stars frame the top of the composition. He wears the basic uniform of the Fusilier Guards (see 406932) with some adaptations, including fringed chevrons along his sleeves and enlarged white shoulder wings. The broad leather belt across his chest, with a buckle and a hook, functioned as the drum carriage.