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 George Roberts of the 1st Life Guards, part of the Household Cavalry. Holding his carbine diagonally in front of him, he is standing as if on sentry duty.

Although much of this uniform is the same as that worn by others in the 1st Life Guards – white-plumed bearskin, red coatee, cuirass and white gauntlets – several features distinguish this dress. He wears white leather breeches and high jack-boots rather than the dark blue trousers. This was the other form of ‘nether garment’ allowed in the uniform regulations, and was particularly suitable for mounted troops. In this painting of the same era, a Private of the 1st Life Guards is depicted mounted on his horse.