Rev. Alexander Carlyle 1796

This oil painting by Scottish artist Henry Raeburn (1756-1823) is a portrait of Rev. Alexander Carlyle, painted in 1796. Raeburn is known for his portraits of prominent figures in Scottish society, and this work is a classic example of his style, characterized by its realistic depiction of the sitter and its painterly brushstrokes. The sitter is portrayed in a formal pose, with his head slightly turned, creating a sense of depth and dimension. The use of light and shadow further enhances the realism of the portrait, highlighting the subject's features and adding a sense of gravitas to the composition.