Portrait of Sir Lister Holte (1720-1770), 5th Baronet * Unknown painters

The portrait presents a gentleman in three-quarter view, set against a dark, almost black background within an oval frame. He is positioned slightly left of center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured expression. The sitters face displays a certain solemnity; the mouth is closed, and the eyes convey a sense of quiet observation rather than overt emotion.
The artist has rendered the man’s hair in voluminous, carefully arranged white curls, typical of the mid-18th century fashion. This elaborate coiffure contributes to an overall impression of refinement and status. He wears a blue velvet coat with a prominent collar revealing a delicate lace cravat. The texture of the velvet is skillfully captured through subtle variations in tone and light, adding depth and richness to the garment. Beneath the coat, one can discern a glimpse of a waistcoat, its fabric appearing lighter than the outer layer.
The lighting in this painting is focused primarily on the face and upper torso, leaving the lower portion of the body shrouded in shadow. This technique draws attention to the sitter’s countenance and emphasizes his presence within the composition. The limited palette – dominated by blues, whites, and dark tones – reinforces a sense of formality and restrained elegance.
Subtly, there is an air of authority conveyed through the mans posture and expression. He appears self-possessed and confident, suggesting a position of influence or importance. The oval format itself was frequently employed for portraits intended to be hung in domestic settings, indicating that this work likely served as a marker of familial identity and social standing. The lack of any background details beyond the dark backdrop further concentrates attention on the individual, reinforcing his significance within the portraits narrative.