Officers and OR 1891

The lance corporal on the left is in full marching order, wearing the 1888 Pattern Slade Wallace equipment, including the valise carried high on the back, and the trenching tool hanging on his left side. The jacket he wears is the undress frock of 1891. This garment was instituted in 1882 and looked very similar to the full dress tunic. At first glance it would seem that the artist, Simkin has made a mistake with the red collar and cuffs. The only part that shows the facings colour is the pair of blue shoulder straps with embroidered title.
Although this uniform was worn for field days, the red frock was no longer worn on active service. The last time British soldiers had worn red in battle was in 1885.
This print shows the difference between the full dress home service helmet of officers and other ranks. The OR's helmet has a rounded peak and the edge is bound with black patent leather. The officer's helmet has a pointed peak and is edged in gilt. He also has a strip of gilt down the back of the helmet. The officer in full dress is a lieutenant as can be seen by the simple lace and braid on his cuff. The crimson sash is worn over the left shoulder and the sword slung from a white leather waist-belt with ornate belt-clasp. In 1902 the sash was worn round the waist and the sword-belt hidden underneath.
The officer in blue patrol jacket, on the right is a senior officer. He wears spurs which suggests that he should be mounted, but one would expect him to have boots and breeches. His sword is hung loose as for mounted duties.

Uniforms | Regimental Details