Major Andrew Barton -Banjo- Patterson George Lambert (1700-1765)

Here we observe a pencil drawing depicting a man in military attire. The subject is presented from the chest upwards, angled slightly towards the viewer. He wears a peaked cap adorned with what appears to be a regimental insignia. His face displays a network of lines and wrinkles, suggesting age and experience. A prominent mustache dominates his upper lip, while his eyes are rendered with a degree of intensity. The artist has employed shading techniques to define the contours of the man’s face and uniform, creating a sense of depth and volume.
The drawings style suggests a rapid execution, possibly a sketch or portrait study undertaken in situ. The lines are loose and expressive, conveying a sense of immediacy rather than meticulous detail. This informality lends a certain intimacy to the portrayal.
Beneath the image, handwritten text identifies the subject as Major Paterson (Banjo) accompanied by signatures and dates, indicating it was likely created as a personal memento or record. The inclusion of the nickname “Banjo” suggests a familiarity with the individual beyond his formal military rank.
Subtly, the drawing conveys an impression of quiet authority and resilience. While not overtly heroic, the man’s posture and facial expression suggest a character marked by duty and perhaps hardship. The artists choice to focus on the subject’s face – particularly the lines etched by time – implies a respect for his life story and experiences. The overall effect is one of understated dignity and a sense of connection to a specific historical context, likely related to military service.