Officer in Egypt 1798

By the end of the 18th century the uniform had changed considerably so that the long coat was now only long at the back. The front of the coat was only waist length, with gold lace across the chest. This could be concealed on campaign by buttoning the double-breasted coat on the other side. The cocked hat was still being worn by all ranks but would be replaced by the first pattern shako in 1800. This officer is wearing white breeches with knee boots but other ranks wore white overalls and short boots underneath. The army made no concessions to the hot climate when the regiment served in Egypt, however, the white cloth tucked under his hat was to protect their necks from the sun, but this would not have been worn on parade.