Daniel Mytens the Elder – Portrait of James Hamilton, Earl of Arran, Later 3rd Marquis and 1st Duke of Hamilton, Aged 17 Tate Britain (London)

The composition presents a young man in three-quarter pose, positioned slightly left of center against a dark, indistinct background. He stands with his weight shifted onto one leg, creating a sense of relaxed formality. The artist has chosen a full-length format, allowing for the detailed depiction of the sitter’s attire and status symbols.
The subjects clothing is meticulously rendered. A black doublet, richly embroidered at the waistline, dominates the visual field. Beneath it, vibrant red hose draw immediate attention, contrasting sharply with the somber tones of the upper garments. The elaborate silver buckles on his shoes and the delicate embroidery on the cuffs further emphasize his aristocratic standing. A large, pleated ruff frames his face, a hallmark of fashionable dress during this period. He holds a feathered hat in one gloved hand, a gesture that suggests both confidence and an awareness of presentation.
The young man’s expression is carefully controlled; he gazes directly at the viewer with a solemnity that conveys dignity and perhaps a touch of youthful seriousness. The lighting is focused on his face and upper torso, highlighting these features while leaving the lower portion in relative shadow. This technique directs the viewers attention to the sitter’s countenance and reinforces the impression of authority.
The dark background serves to isolate the figure, intensifying the focus on him and contributing to a sense of grandeur. The lack of detail within the backdrop suggests an interior space, but it is not specific enough to provide contextual clues beyond the fact that this is likely a formal setting.
Subtly, the painting communicates themes of lineage, power, and social standing. The richness of the fabrics, the intricate detailing of the accessories, and the confident posture all work together to project an image of nobility and privilege. The red hose, in particular, might carry symbolic weight related to family heraldry or political affiliations, though this would require further historical context. Ultimately, the portrait functions as a visual declaration of identity and status within a hierarchical society.