[1] [2] The third son of George III, Clarence was not considered likely to inherit the throne and joined the Royal Navy.

He is shown in the full dress uniform of an admiral, wearing the Order of the Garter.

[3] After the death of his elder brother George IV in 1830, William succeeded to the throne.

Archer Shee was President of the Royal Academy during William's reign, following Thomas Lawrence in the post.

Today the work is in the collection of the National Portrait Gallery in London, which acquired it in 1928.