Robert Kerr, 1st Marquess of Lothian, 1636 - 1703. Statesman
Robert Kerr had his portrait painted by various artists. He was no doubt fascinated by Verelst, a Dutch flower-painter whose portraits became fashionable after he painted the royal family and several of Charles II’s mistresses. This intriguing image, painted in London, shows Kerr looking wistfully over his shoulder. It is typical of Verelst’s style, with its strong modelling and the equal attention paid to every element of the composition.
Kerr, a Presbyterian, had seen some military action in the Scottish Borders. His political career came later: he was awarded various Scottish positions by William and Mary, following his support of the Glorious Revolution in 1688. These included Sheriff-Principal and High Commissioner to the General Assembly.
Credit: Bequeathed by the Marquess of Lothian 1941