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. Seen here is Private Samuel Bowden of the Royal Horse Guards, part of the Household Cavalry. He is shown almost from behind, returning his sword to its scabbard. 

The basic elements of this uniform are the same as those in 407024 although, rather than white breeches, the figure wears dark blue trousers with a single scarlet stripe. By posing Bowden as he does, Drahonet reveals various aspects of a Private’s uniform unseen from the front, including the red-edged tails of the coatee, the boots’ spurs and the way in which both carbine and ammunition hang from the shoulder belt. In this painting of the same era, a Private of the Royal Horse Guards is depicted mounted on his horse.