Charles Lennox (1735-1806) 3rd Duke of Richmond and Lennox Joshua Reynolds (1723-1792)

The portrait presents a gentleman in a striking crimson suit, positioned slightly off-center against a dark, atmospheric background. He stands with a relaxed posture, his left hand resting on a stone ledge and his right arm casually draped across his waist. A greyhound sits at his feet, its collar bearing an inscription visible upon close inspection.
The color palette is dominated by the intense red of the gentleman’s attire, which immediately draws the eye and conveys a sense of authority and perhaps even flamboyance. The artist employed loose brushstrokes to render the fabric, suggesting texture and movement within the suits folds. This contrasts with the more precise detailing visible in the face, where subtle nuances of expression are captured – a slight upward curve of the lips hinting at composure or amusement.
The background is rendered in muted greens and browns, creating depth and obscuring any specific location. The indistinct foliage suggests an outdoor setting, though it remains ambiguous. This lack of detail directs focus onto the subject and his companion.
The greyhound’s presence introduces a layer of symbolism. Greyhounds were often associated with nobility and leisure, reinforcing the gentlemans status. The inscription on its collar is difficult to decipher fully but adds an element of personal significance, potentially referencing lineage or a particular event.
Overall, the painting conveys an impression of refined elegance and understated power. The subject’s confident stance, coupled with his vibrant clothing and loyal canine companion, suggests a man accustomed to privilege and possessing a certain degree of self-assurance. The subdued background contributes to a sense of mystery, hinting at a life lived beyond what is immediately visible in the portrait.