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 the sitters are often identified by name, this painting’s inscription only identifies the figure as a Private of the 8th (King’s Royal Irish) 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.

Drahonet illustrates the newly updated Hussar uniform in this painting. The 8th Hussars had recently moved from pale grey to navy blue overalls. In addition, the pelisse (worn slung over the shoulder) was now red, following William IV’s preference for the colour. The Hussars’ shako was usually topped by a tall black plume, but in this painting it is concealed by the black waterproof cover worn primarily during ‘foul weather’ campaigns.