[1] It depicts the events of 1820, in which George IV, who had recently succeeded to the throne, attempted to divorce his long-estranged wife, Caroline of Brunswick.

The Lords heard evidence of the Queen's adultery, but with public opinion strongly in Caroline's favour, the measure was ultimately withdrawn by the government.

The painting was commissioned by George Agar-Ellis, a rising young Whig Member of Parliament and supporter of Caroline.

Amongst those prominent in the picture are the Whig opposition politicians Lord Holland and Earl Grey, with the latter standing and cross-examining a witness.

Hayter went on to produce several contemporary history paintings, including The House of Commons, 1833, as well as the Coronation and Wedding of Queen Victoria.