Gentleman in Blue Coat and Yellow Waistcoat

A gentleman in an ultramarine blue coat before an olive-coloured background looks at the observer calmly and self-confidently. A yellow waistcoat covers his slight paunch, which was considered a sign of wealth at that time. His cheeks and lips, which are strongly emphasised with red paint, give a fresh and vivid touch to the picture. The meticulous reproduction of the embroidery and of the folds of the waistcoat and the jabot indicate that the artist was a significant English miniature painter.
James Scouler was the son of an organ-maker and music salesman. He was not only a painter but also a businessman who invested in the Privileged East-India Company, one of the most significant overseas trading companies in the 16th to 18th centuries. Scouler probably lived in India from 1776 to 1780.¹
His works are characterised by their strong colouring. It is possible that early works clearly not signed by Scouler were erroneously attributed to John Smart due to their similar painting style and identical initials. From around 1790, Scouler changed his style and used more watercolours which added lightness to his pictures.²
The reverse of the gilt metal case bears a second portrait miniature of a young gentleman in profile by another English painter, which was possibly created at the same time.³
J. S. O.