Sir Edward Hales, Baronet, of Hales Place, Hackington, Kent Philippe Mercier (1689-1760)

The portrait presents a gentleman in what appears to be a rural setting. He stands centrally within the composition, positioned slightly off-center towards the left. The figure is dressed in elaborate attire characteristic of the early eighteenth century: a brown coat with prominent gold braiding, an orange waistcoat, white stockings, and black shoes. A tricorn hat sits atop his head, completing the formal presentation. In his right hand, he holds a long fowling piece, while his left arm hangs loosely, displaying a hunting pouch suspended from his belt. At his feet lie several dead game birds, accompanied by a spotted hound, which gazes directly at the viewer.
The background is rendered with a degree of atmospheric perspective, suggesting depth and distance. A hazy landscape stretches out behind him, featuring trees and what appears to be a distant view of rolling hills under a pale sky. The artist has employed a dark, almost black backdrop on the right side of the painting, which serves to isolate the subject and emphasize his presence.
The subtexts within this portrait are layered. The gentleman’s attire signifies status and wealth; the elaborate clothing denotes membership in an elite social class. His pose – holding a gun and accompanied by hunting dogs and game – implies leisure and mastery over nature, reinforcing notions of landed gentry and their dominion over the countryside. The presence of the hound is not merely decorative but reinforces this theme of control and companionship within a rural pursuit.
The dark background contributes to an air of formality and perhaps even solemnity. It suggests that this is more than just a casual depiction; its a carefully constructed representation intended to convey specific qualities – authority, prosperity, and engagement in traditional aristocratic pursuits. The overall effect is one of controlled elegance and understated power, characteristic of portraiture designed to establish and maintain social standing.