Gentleman in a blue and red cape

In this work, which Benjamin Arlaud probably painted in England in the second decade of the 18th century, the artist found it important to present the model with an expression of superiority. He is therefore shown looking towards the observer from a slightly elevated position, creating the impression that the sitter is looking down on the observer. His eyes are half closed and he has a quiet confidence about him as if nothing could arouse his emotions. He concentrates his attention solely on his fictitious viewer, the person for whom the miniature was originally intended.
In the Baroque period, portrait painters often had to make their works less a depiction of reality than of the appearance the clients desired. Not only the background scene was imaginary, but frequently also the clothing and accessories. Ultimately the choice was determined by a number of factors. Alongside aesthetic criteria, aspects such as the price also had to be taken into account. The customer depicted in this miniature was given a relatively “cheap” robe, since it is plain and only the shoulder is visible. The use of costly ultramarine blue did not add much to the price in the small quantity applied here.