Lieutenant-Colonel William Collis Spring (1769-1825), 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot, 1815 (c)

Miniature portrait in watercolour on ivory, artist unknown, 1815 (c). In a brass mount within a black-painted wooden frame, with a suspension loop at the top.

Bust-length portrait of an officer in uniform.

William Spring purchased an ensigncy in the 48th (Northamptonshire) Regiment of Foot in 1789. He first saw service as a lieutenant in the Caribbean during the French Revolutionary Wars. In 1795 he transferred to the 69th (South Lincolnshire) Regiment of Foot and then the 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment of Foot. During the Peninsular War (1808-1814) Spring fought with distinction and was wounded at the Battle of Albuera in 1811. In this miniature he is shown wearing the Army Gold Medal for his actions at Albuera. He was promoted lieutenant-colonel in 1813 and retired six years later.

From the collection of the former Middlesex Regimental Museum.