Gentleman in Blue Coat

The voluminous wig of this image-conscious – and apparently conceited – young gentleman¹ indicates that the miniature’s year of origin is around 1790. The dark blue coat is fitted with large golden gleaming buttons for effect. These articles of clothing, based on military uniforms,were very popular in England at that time. Underneath he is wearing a white waistcoat, from which the pleated jabot is protruding. The stock is tied in a bow in front. As distinct from French custom, the gentleman wears his hair unpowdered.

When painting this work, Edridge was just about twenty years of age. His talent became evident at an early age as was documented by his participation in the exhibitions of the Royal Academy at seventeen. With Edridge the model could chose the surroundings for his portrait. The artist painted a cloudy sky as skilfully as a landscape scene, a bouffant grand drape and an interior. The portrait presented here is one of his comparatively simple portraits. The main focus is on the young gentleman’s face, to which the artist gave an individual expression. The eye contact with the contemplator as well as the model’s pursed and slightly opened lips create the impression of a conversation between sitter and the miniature’s addressee. Or is perhaps a kiss suggested here?

B. P.