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 trumpeter William Batley of the 2nd Life Guards, part of the Household Cavalry. He is depicted playing his instrument, from which hangs a gold-fringed red banner showing the Royal Arms.

Like 1st Life Guards trumpeter Thomas Jagger, Batley wears a red-crested steel helmet and short gloves (rather than longer gauntlets) which made it easier to handle the trumpet. But, unlike Jagger, he wears the ceremonial red and gold State Dress. The large ‘GR’ on his chest, the cypher of the previous monarch George IV, suggests this painting was made early in William IV’s reign.