Johan Adam von Gertten (1767-1835), governor of Strömsholm, colonel, landscape painter Aleksander Lauréus (1783-1823)

The portrait presents a man in military attire standing beside a large chestnut horse, with a small dog at his feet. The composition is structured around a central axis formed by the figures of the man and the horse, creating a sense of stability and authority. He is positioned slightly to the left of center, leaning casually against the horse’s flank, an affectation that suggests both confidence and relaxed power. His uniform, dark blue with white breeches and polished boots, denotes his military rank and status. The tricorn hat sits squarely on his head, a standard symbol of authority in this period. A decorative sash across his chest hints at further honors or appointments.
The horse is rendered with considerable detail, its musculature evident beneath the short coat. Its posture suggests both strength and docility, reinforcing the sitter’s image as a man who commands respect but also possesses control. The dog, a small white breed, adds an element of domesticity to the scene, softening the otherwise formal presentation. It is positioned slightly behind the man, appearing almost subservient, further emphasizing his dominance.
The background is deliberately subdued, consisting primarily of a dark forest and a distant landscape rendered in muted tones. This limited depth of field focuses attention on the central figures, preventing any distraction from their portrayal. The artist employed a technique that blends realism with a degree of idealization; while the man’s features are recognizable, they appear somewhat softened and refined.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of military prowess, social standing, and perhaps even an appreciation for nature – suggested by the landscape painters profession. The inclusion of the horse and dog is not merely decorative but serves to amplify his status as a man of influence and refinement. The casual pose against the animal suggests a comfortable familiarity with power and privilege; he is not simply displaying authority, but embodying it. The overall effect is one of restrained grandeur, projecting an image of a man who holds significant position within society while maintaining a semblance of approachable demeanor.