Who painted James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose?

James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose was painted by Adriaen Matham in 1644.

Where can I see James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose?

James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose?

James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose

Adriaen Matham , 1644

James Graham, First Marquess of Montrose is an ink print by the Baroque artist Adriaen Matham. It dates from 1644 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This early‑modern print presents James Graham, the first Marquess of Montrose, rendered in a black‑and‑white engraving dated around 1644.

About this work

Overview

This early‑modern print presents James Graham, the first Marquess of Montrose, rendered in a black‑and‑white engraving dated around 1644. Executed by the Dutch artist Adriaen Matham, the image depicts the Scottish nobleman in formal attire, accompanied by heraldic and emblematic devices that identify his rank and office.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait emphasizes Graham’s status as a leading figure in 17th‑century Scotland, noting his titles such as Marquess of Montrose and Captain General for the king. The inclusion of a coat of arms and a fantastical horned figure beside his head serves to underline both his lineage and the martial, perhaps mythic, qualities associated with his reputation.

Technique & Style

The crisp delineation of the collar and the intricate detailing of the heraldic shield illustrate the precision characteristic of mid‑17th‑century printmaking.

Matham employed the traditional engraving method, incising fine lines into laid paper with a burin. The artist built tonal variation through densely packed cross‑hatching, creating the illusion of shadows on the face, hair, and ruffled garments. The crisp delineation of the collar and the intricate detailing of the heraldic shield illustrate the precision characteristic of mid‑17th‑century printmaking.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1644, the print reflects a period when continental engravers produced portraits of notable British figures for circulation among elite audiences. While the original plate’s ownership record is limited, the work has been catalogued in collections of European prints, indicating its distribution beyond Scotland and its role in disseminating the image of Montrose during the tumultuous Wars of the Three Kingdoms.