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. This painting depicts Corporal John McCain of the 5th (Princess Charlotte of Wales's) Dragoon Guards. The 5th Dragoon Guards, renamed after George IV’s daughter Charlotte in 1804, were a Heavy Cavalry Regiment, employed to deliver shock charges on the battlefield and also to fight their adversaries hand-to-hand.

By showing McCain almost from behind, Drahonet emphasises various aspects of the uniform obscured from the front, including the pouch for carrying ammunition and the sabretache, suspended from his shoulder belt. The uniform is almost identical to that worn by Sergeant Benjamin Gilliece, although the Corporal has two rather than three chevrons on the arm of his coatee, to indicate his lower rank.