Sir Michael Smith, 1st Bt (1740-1808)

Hamilton, having transitioned from pastels to oils, employs a dark background to accentuate the vibrant, detailed rendering of Sir Michael's attire and the wooden chair, showcasing his mastery of chiaroscuro and textures in oil painting.

Painted in 1800, the work is part of the National Gallery of Ireland's collection, reflecting Hamilton's established presence in Dublin by the late 18th century, following periods in London and Rome.

Created during Hamilton's Dublin period, the painting exemplifies late 18th-century Irish portraiture, blending European influences with a distinct attention to the sitter's social standing.

As a portrait of a lesser-known figure by a mid-tier artist of his time, its legacy lies more in its representation of late 18th-century Irish aristocratic life and Hamilton's oeuvre than in widespread artistic impact.