Sir John Rushout, Bt. John Smibert (1688-1751)

Here we observe a three-quarter portrait of a gentleman seated before a table draped in crimson fabric. The subject is positioned slightly left of center, facing forward with a direct gaze that establishes immediate engagement with the viewer. His expression is one of measured composure; there’s an air of quiet authority conveyed through his posture and countenance.
The mans attire contributes significantly to the overall impression. He wears a voluminous, russet-colored coat over a crisp white shirt collar, topped by a distinctive red hat that echoes the color of the table covering. The combination suggests both wealth and adherence to established social conventions. A green velvet cushion provides a backdrop behind his head, offering a subtle contrast to the warm tones of his clothing and skin.
In his right hand, he holds an open document, seemingly in the act of reading or referencing it. Several books are stacked on the table to his left, reinforcing the impression of intellectual pursuits and scholarly interests. The text visible on the document appears handwritten, adding a layer of intimacy and suggesting personal correspondence or legal matters.
The dark background serves to isolate the figure, drawing attention to his presence and emphasizing the details of his appearance and surroundings. A coat of arms is subtly placed in the upper left corner, indicating lineage and social standing. The lighting is carefully controlled, highlighting the subject’s face and hands while leaving portions of the background in shadow.
Subtly, the painting conveys a sense of self-possession and cultivated refinement. The deliberate arrangement of objects – the books, the document, the formal attire – all contribute to an image of a man who values knowledge, tradition, and social propriety. It is likely intended as a statement of status and character, designed to project an image of respectability and intellectual standing within his community.