John Manners, Marquess of Granby Allan Ramsay (1713-1784)

The composition presents a gentleman in outdoor attire, positioned centrally within the frame. He stands with a relaxed posture, one hand resting casually on his hip and the other gripping a walking stick. His gaze is directed outward, suggesting engagement with the surrounding environment rather than direct address of the viewer.
The artist has rendered him in formal dress: a dark blue coat lined with silver braid, a white shirt open at the throat, red breeches, and stockings. The color palette is restrained but deliberate; the vibrant red of the breeches provides a striking contrast against the darker tones of the coat and landscape, drawing attention to his legs and suggesting vitality.
The background reveals a somewhat indistinct rural scene. A low-slung building with a tiled roof sits on an elevated area to the left, while a rolling terrain stretches out towards a cloudy sky. The treatment of the landscape is not particularly detailed; it serves more as a backdrop than a focal point, emphasizing the figure’s prominence.
The lighting appears naturalistic, illuminating his face and upper body while leaving the lower portion in shadow. This creates a sense of depth and volume, highlighting the contours of his form. The cloudy sky contributes to a slightly somber mood, tempering any potential for excessive brightness or cheerfulness.
Subtly, the walking stick suggests an active lifestyle, perhaps hinting at pursuits such as hunting or riding. His relaxed stance and outward gaze convey a sense of confidence and authority, indicative of someone accustomed to command and leisure. The overall impression is one of understated elegance and comfortable power – a man who occupies a position of social standing and enjoys the privileges that come with it.