James Abercromby (1776–1858), 1st Baron Dunfermline

Phillips's portrait of James Abercromby, first Baron Dunfermline from 1821 depicts the Whig politician who would serve as Speaker of the House of Commons from 1835 to 1839, one of the most important constitutional offices in Britain. The 1821 date places this before his elevation to the speakership, in the period when he was a prominent Whig barrister and MP whose political career was ascending. Phillips's sustained engagement with the Whig political establishment gave his portrait practice a political dimension—documenting the opposition that would come to power with the Great Reform Act of 1832—alongside his ecclesiastical and academic commissions. The institutional portrait of a future Speaker served both commemorative and political functions.

The political portrait presents Abercromby with the gravitas expected of a future Speaker. Phillips renders the features with careful observation, capturing the intelligence and determination that characterized the politician's career. The handling is professional and competent, serving the needs of institutional commemoration.