Unusual Artifacts: King George IV’s Uniform Pouch, 1814

Pouch
1814-1816
Made for George IV
The Royal Collection

As I’ve mentioned before, King George III forbade his son from participating in any actual military maneuvers and insisted that he never carry a weapon. Nevertheless, the future King George IV always had a keen interest in the military and, while he couldn’t actually do anything with his soldier friends, enjoyed wearing the uniform bestowed upon him by his honorary title of “Colonel.” Not only did George like wearing the uniform, he enjoyed collecting extravagant uniforms as well.

This pouch—designed to be worn on the uniform’s belt—seems to have never been worn. In fact, it appears to have been made for the purpose of display more so than anything else. An ornate creation of wood, leather, velvet, silk, silver thread, and brass, the pouch is far fancier than those which were actually used in battle.

One of the many uniform accoutrements collected by George IV, this pouch is part of a matching suite of items which are on display as part of the Royal Collection.

Crown Copyright
The Royal Collection
via The Royal Collection Trust
Image Courtesy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Click image to enlarge.