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 Corporal Thomas Robinson of the 2nd Life Guards, part of the Household Cavalry.

The uniform illustrated here consists of a cuirass and white gauntlet cuffs, worn over a red coatee. The dark blue trousers he wears (which appear almost black in the painting) with a double scarlet stripe became an authorised part of the Life Guards’ uniform the following year. He wears a steel, gilt-mounted helmet with a black crest. Although the bearskin cap was increasingly worn for ceremonial occasions, the helmet was retained for most other duties.