Ames Guthrie Orchar, Provost of Broughty Ferry 1886

John Pettie created this portrait of Ames Guthrie Orchar, Provost of Broughty Ferry, using oil on canvas. The somber palette and tight composition create a focused image that directs our attention to Orchar's face, highlighted against the dark background. Pettie’s brushstrokes, though blended, still carry a texture that adds depth and realism to the figure, setting the tone for a contemplative mood. This portrait reflects the Victorian era's interest in character and the inner life of an individual. The hand supporting the face is not merely a pose, but a signifier of thought and introspection. Pettie presents the viewer with not just an image of a man, but a representation of his position and personal character. The formal attire and thoughtful posture are carefully constructed to convey respectability. By focusing on the formal elements, we can appreciate how Pettie captured not just a likeness but also a sense of the sitter's social identity and psychological depth, reflecting the cultural values of his time.