Privates, 19th (Princess of Wales's Own) and 18th Hussars, 1895 (c)

Glass negative, W Gregory and Company, 51 Strand, London, 1895 (c).

This image comes from a collection of glass plate negatives associated with William Gregory and Company. The negatives depict the British Army, including some members of the colonial forces, 'at home' in Britain during the 1890s.

As well as being intimate portraits of soldiers from this era, the images provide detailed illustrations of uniforms worn during the high point of military tailoring.

Both privates are wearing undress uniform. This comprises a blue serge frock and a blue pillbox cap with a yellow band around it and a yellow lace design and button on top. They have dark blue pantaloons with a double yellow stripe down the outside seam, tucked into black riding boots with spurs attached. Their collar badges have their regimental numbers in Roman numerals. They have white leather pouch belts and white gloves.

On the left you can see that the private of the 19th Hussars has his carbine in a leather bucket by his right thigh. With the private on the right, (18th Hussars) you can see his sword attached to the saddle. He also has a pair of leather wallets. On his left sleeve you can see two chevrons (6 years good conduct) and a skill at arms badge, possibly for musketry.

One of a collection of 280 glass negatives, associated with W Gregory and Company, London, and F G O Stuart, 1892 (c)-1900.