Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772), official * Per Krafft the Elder (1724-1793)

Here we observe a formal portrait of a man in late middle age. He is positioned centrally within the frame, facing slightly towards the viewer, creating a direct and engaging gaze. The lighting emphasizes his face, highlighting the subtle lines etched by time and experience. His expression is thoughtful, perhaps even contemplative, suggesting an intellect at work.
The subject’s attire contributes significantly to the overall impression of authority and status. He wears a brown coat with a waistcoat, typical of the periods formal dress. The elaborate powdered wig, meticulously styled, reinforces his position within a hierarchical society. The color palette is muted, dominated by earth tones that lend a sense of gravitas and seriousness to the composition.
In his left hand, he holds a small tablet or plaque upon which text is inscribed. While the script is difficult to decipher fully, it appears to be Latin, hinting at erudition and engagement with classical learning. The presence of this textual element suggests an intellectual pursuit, potentially related to religious or philosophical studies. It serves as a visual cue to his scholarly endeavors.
The background is dark and indistinct, which draws attention solely to the figure and the tablet he holds. This deliberate lack of detail further emphasizes the subject’s importance and isolates him from any specific context. The artist has chosen to present him as an individual of significance, detached from the everyday world.
Subtly, theres a sense of restraint in the composition. There are no overt displays of emotion or grand gestures; instead, we encounter a quiet dignity and intellectual presence. This suggests that the portrait aims not merely to record likeness but also to convey character and perhaps even a certain degree of spiritual depth. The overall effect is one of solemnity and profound introspection.