Sir Charles Tertius Mander (1852–1929), Mayor of Wolverhampton John Collier (1850-1934)

The portrait presents a man in formal attire, positioned against a dark, indistinct background that emphasizes his figure and regalia. He is depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly toward the viewer with a composed expression. The lighting highlights his face, particularly emphasizing the prominent mustache and neatly trimmed beard, which contribute to an air of authority and self-assurance.
The man’s clothing conveys significant status. A dark suit, likely black, is adorned with elaborate embroidery along the lapels and cuffs. Over this, he wears a richly furred mantle or cloak, lined in red, suggesting civic importance and possibly mayoral office. The most striking element of his attire is the heavy chain and medallion suspended across his chest; these are clearly symbols of high office and likely represent a specific order or honorific bestowed upon him. The detail afforded to the rendering of the metalwork indicates its significance as a visual marker of prestige.
The artist’s technique appears traditional, with careful attention paid to capturing texture – the softness of the fur, the sheen of the metal, and the crispness of the starched collar. A sense of solidity is achieved through the use of chiaroscuro, where light and shadow define form and create depth. The overall effect is one of dignified formality, intended to project an image of power, responsibility, and established social standing.
Subtly, theres a suggestion of restrained emotion; his gaze is steady but not overly warm, hinting at a man accustomed to maintaining composure in public roles. The composition itself – the direct frontal view and the emphasis on official symbols – reinforces this impression of controlled authority and civic duty.