Carl von Linné (1707-1778), botanist, professor Alexander Roslin (1718-1793)

The portrait presents a man in his later years, depicted from the chest upwards against a dark, undefined background. He is positioned slightly off-center, gazing directly at the viewer with a measured expression. The lighting emphasizes his face and upper torso, creating a sense of focused attention.
Here we see an individual characterized by a prominent forehead and a gentle curve to his lips, suggesting intelligence and perhaps a degree of reservedness. His eyes convey a certain seriousness, hinting at a contemplative nature. The skin tone is rendered with subtle variations in color, indicating the artist’s skill in capturing age and texture.
The mans attire contributes significantly to the overall impression. He wears a richly colored, brown coat adorned with elaborate gold embroidery, indicative of status and refinement. A delicate lace cravat peeks from beneath the coat, adding another layer of elegance. The meticulously styled powdered wig is a clear marker of his social standing within the period’s conventions. A small cluster of flowers is pinned to his lapel, a subtle nod to his profession or area of expertise – likely related to botany given the context.
The signature in the lower right corner, rendered in an elegant script, reinforces the sense of established authority and legacy. The dark background serves to isolate the figure, drawing the viewer’s attention solely to him and emphasizing his importance. The composition suggests a formal portrait intended to convey respectability, intellect, and a position of influence within society.