Sir Watkin Williams Wynn Thomas Hudson (1701-1779)

The portrait presents a gentleman in a three-quarter pose against a dark, undefined background. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes a sense of authority and confidence. The sitters physique suggests a man accustomed to comfort and abundance; he appears robust, with a double chin subtly emphasized by the lighting.
The artist has rendered the subject’s attire with considerable attention to detail. A rich, reddish-brown coat, likely velvet or a similar luxurious fabric, dominates the composition. The texture of the material is palpable, achieved through careful brushwork that captures its sheen and depth. Beneath the coat, a crisp white shirt with a high collar reveals a glimpse of his neck, contributing to an overall impression of refinement. A waistcoat, visible at the edges, further reinforces this sense of prosperity and status.
The elaborate powdered wig is a significant element in conveying the sitter’s social standing. The meticulous arrangement of curls speaks to adherence to fashionable trends of the period, signifying membership within a privileged echelon of society. The greyish-white hue of the hair contrasts with the warmth of his complexion, drawing attention to his face and emphasizing its features.
The lighting is carefully orchestrated to highlight key aspects of the portrait. A soft light illuminates the sitter’s face, softening some of the harsher lines and creating a sense of approachability despite his imposing presence. The shadows that fall across his coat add volume and dimension, preventing the image from appearing flat or static.
Inscribed in the upper left corner is an abbreviation and a date – S.W.A.W. Wynne 1746. This inscription serves as both identification and a marker of time, anchoring the portrait within a specific historical context. The lettering’s placement, however, feels somewhat awkward, disrupting the otherwise balanced composition.
Subtly, there is an air of self-assuredness conveyed through his posture and expression. He does not appear to be posing for display; rather, he seems comfortable in his own skin, projecting a sense of established power and influence. The lack of any overt symbols or props suggests that the artist intended to portray the sitter’s character and status primarily through his appearance and demeanor.