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. As the inscription relays, this painting depicts The Marquess of Londonderry Charles Vane, who was the Colonel of the 10th (The Prince of Wales's Own) Royal Hussars. The Hussars were a regiment of light cavalry mounted on particularly fast horses, used in skirmishes and for reconnaissance duties. Taking their name and function from Hungarian cavalry forces, the British Army’s Hussars developed out of Light Dragoon regiments from the beginning of 19th century.

In this painting, Drahonet illustrates the uniform of a Hussar Officer in Full Dress. Although the basic components of his uniform were standard to the regiment, various details indicate Vane’s higher rank, including the jewel-encrusted sabretache and scabbard, the abundance of gold lace and braid all but obscuring his dark blue coatee, and the tassels, lacing and jewels adorning his black-plumed shako. His red pantaloons were only worn by Hussar Officers on ceremonial occasions.