Matvei Ivanovitch, Count Platov (1757-1818)

Lawrence painted Count Platov around 1814 as part of the Waterloo Chamber series, depicting the legendary Cossack hetman who commanded the Don Cossack cavalry during the wars against Napoleon. Platov's Cossacks harassed the Grande Armée during its catastrophic retreat from Moscow in 1812, contributing significantly to the French disaster. His exotic appearance and fierce reputation made him a sensation during his visit to London in 1814, where crowds mobbed him wherever he went. Lawrence's portrait captures the Cossack commander's martial bearing and exotic costume. Now in the Royal Collection at Windsor, it represents one of the most colorful characters in the Waterloo Chamber ensemble.

Platov's Cossack uniform provides Lawrence with an opportunity for spectacular passages of texture — fur, braid, and metal are rendered with bravura confidence. The weathered, battle-hardened face contrasts with the decorative splendor of the costume, creating a portrait of martial distinction.