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 Sergeant Stephen Reese of the 9th (The Queen’s Royal) Lancers. The British Army introduced Lancer regiments in 1816, seeking to emulate the charging prowess displayed by the French lancers during the Napoleonic Wars. In addition to the lance, topped by a red and white pennon, this Lancer Sergeant was also armed with a sabre and pistol, which were used for close combat after the initial cavalry charge.

In the years preceding Drahonet’s paintings, the 9th Lancers’ uniform had undergone several changes: their coatees were now red rather than blue, following William IV’s preference for the colour. The trousers, once blue-grey Cossack-style, were now dark blue with a double red stripe. While this aspect of the dress now broadly reflected the uniform of many of the other cavalry regiments, the military headpiece worn here was unique to the Lancers. The lance-cap was based on the Polish ‘schapska’, and consisted of a tall black leather square-topped cap, with peaks at the front and back, crowned by a tall black plume.