Captain Patrick Miller 1788 - 1789

This is Henry Raeburn’s portrait of Captain Patrick Miller. Painted during a time of significant social and political upheaval, the artwork captures a moment in the life of a military figure against the backdrop of shifting power dynamics. Raeburn’s portraits often reflect the identity and status of his sitters. Here, the Captain’s confident pose and meticulously rendered uniform speak to his position within the British military. The inclusion of the horse is not merely decorative; it signifies wealth, status, and military prowess. It invites us to consider the role of the military in shaping national identity and enforcing social hierarchies. Raeburn captures a tension between the individual and the institution, between personal identity and social role. The portrait serves as both a celebration of individual achievement and a reflection on the complex intersections of power, identity, and representation.