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 Cornet (Sub-Lieutenant) Samuel Marindin of the 2nd Life Guards, part of the Household Cavalry. Cornet was the lowest grade of commissioned officer in the cavalry.

The uniform illustrated here consists of a cuirass worn over a red coatee and white gauntlets, one of which the figure holds in his bare hand, revealing the embroidered blue facings of the coatee. He wears a steel, gilt-mounted helmet with a black crest. The gold bullion epaulettes and other ornamentation could be worn only by Officers. The white leather breeches and high jack-boots were particularly favoured by mounted troops.