Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832)

This portrait of Sir Walter Scott at Glasgow Museums depicts Scotland’s most famous literary figure during Raeburn’s lifetime. Scott’s historical novels, beginning with Waverley in 1814, transformed European literature and created the romantic image of Scotland that persists to this day. Raeburn and Scott were close contemporaries who together defined Scottish cultural identity. Characteristic of Raeburn's approach, the work displays bold, direct brushwork with strong chiaroscuro and psychological penetration.

Raeburn renders the novelist with the directness and warmth of personal acquaintance. Scott’s characteristic features—strong jaw, keen eyes—are captured with the bold technique and penetrating characterization that mark Raeburn’s finest portraits.