| Thomas Rowlandson Expedition or Military Fly 17.5 x 12 A hand coloured aquatint engraved by Thomas Rowlandson after his own design and published in London by Ackermann in 1798. The London and Westminster Light Horse Volunteers were inaugurated in 1779 in response to the perceived threat of a French invasion. They remained active and played a crucial role during the French Revolutionary Wars between 1792 and 1802. They were one of the first voluntary military units to be formed in the country and were comprised largely of noblemen and gentlemen associated with mercantile firms in the City of London. As we can observe, they wore scarlet jackets with black velvet collars and cuffs and each troop was designated up to 8 NCOs who were in charge. In this fascinating print we see the Volunteers on manoeuvres somewhere within site of St. Paul's Cathedral. The Military Fly, mentioned in the title, most probably refers to the horse drawn wagon that could carry upwards of two dozen men into action. During uncertain geopolitical times, it is hard to overestimate how important these troops were in maintaining calm on the streets of London. They served in support of "King and Country" and if they wished to leave town required a leave of absence from their superior. £850 |
