This Likeness of the Prince Regent of Great Britain, 1811

This etching after Charles Rosenberg shows George as Prince Regent on a splendidly adorned white horse in Brighton. It was published just a few weeks after George had been declared Regent folowing the severe illness of his father, George III.

What can we see?

Military man

George was a well-known patron of the arts and took pride in his creative pursuits. Here we see him wearing the uniform of the 10th Light Dragoons or Hussars which he had designed himself.

Images of the monarch controlling a powerful horse with ease and confidence were often used in royal portraiture.

Stables

A closer look shows us that the Royal Stables (now Brighton Dome), designed by William Porden in 1803-1808 are clearly visible, and beautifully rendered on the right.

Trooping the Colour

Behind George on his horse, appearing almost as toy soldiers, we can see the Royal troops parading in front of Henry Holland’s Marine Pavilion.

This building would be later remodelled into the Royal Pavilion we see today.

Glitter and sparkle

You might notice that the print looks a little dull as it has darkened over time. Our paper conservators could normally clean it, but here this is not possible as the print has been embellished with gold and bronze paint.

This was used to make the uniform and saddle sparkle as it caught the light. We are left to imagine how resplendent George would have appeared when the etching was originally completed.

Author: Beverley Green

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