James Bruce of Bankton, Midcalder

"James Bruce of Bankton, Midcalder," painted by Henry Raeburn in 1779, depicts the Scottish explorer and diplomat James Bruce, who is renowned for his travels in Africa and his search for the source of the Nile. The portrait exemplifies Raeburn's mastery in capturing the character and status of his subjects, contributing significantly to the genre of portraiture in 18th-century Scotland and enhancing Bruce's legacy as a prominent figure in Scottish history.

"James Bruce of Bankton, Midcalder," painted by Henry Raeburn in 1781, features a full-length portrait of the Scottish nobleman, depicted in a dark, elegantly tailored coat with a white cravat, set against a muted background that enhances his dignified presence. The composition is characterized by Raeburn's masterful use of light and shadow, which highlights Bruce's facial features and the textures of his attire, while the subtle color palette contributes to the overall sense of gravitas and refinement.