Samuel Åkerhielm of Margretelund (1684-1768) Lorens Pasch the Elder (1702-1766)

The portrait presents a gentleman seated in a richly carved chair, positioned slightly off-center within the frame. He is depicted from the chest up, facing towards the viewer with a direct gaze that conveys both authority and a degree of self-assurance. The sitter’s complexion is pale, contrasting sharply with the deep crimson tones dominating his attire. A voluminous white wig, meticulously styled, frames his face, emphasizing its roundness and contributing to an overall impression of formality.
The gentlemans clothing is elaborate: a brocade coat in shades of red and gold, trimmed with fur, suggests considerable wealth and status. He holds a walking stick in his left hand, the shaft extending downwards out of view; this accessory reinforces notions of mobility and societal standing. In his right hand, he grasps a folded document, which appears to bear inscribed text – likely an epitaph or some other significant declaration. The placement of this item suggests its importance as a symbol of his legacy or accomplishments.
The background is dark and indistinct, composed primarily of brown tones that recede into shadow. A portion of the chair’s ornate backrest is visible on the left side, adding to the sense of opulence. Light falls predominantly upon the sitters face and upper body, highlighting these areas while leaving the lower portions in relative darkness. This use of light serves to draw attention to his features and clothing, further emphasizing his prominence.
Subtly, there is a certain stiffness to the pose; it lacks spontaneity, suggesting a deliberate attempt at portraying an image of dignified composure. The directness of the gaze, while conveying authority, also hints at a guarded nature. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed representation – a portrait intended not merely as likeness but as a statement about social position and personal identity within a hierarchical society.