'Royal Body Guard H.M. Honble Corps of Gentlemen at Arms', 1861

Coloured lithograph by J Harris after Orlando Norie, 1861, published by Ackermann, 25 March 1861.

The Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms is a bodyguard for the British monarch. Originally formed in the reign of King Henry VIII as the Troop of Gentlemen, a bodyguard drawing on the younger sons of English noble families. The purpose of the Corps of Gentlemen at Arms evolved into a ceremonial role with duties including attendance at state ceremonies including the opening of Parliament, state visits and, most notably, the coronations, weddings and funerals of British monarchs.