James Gregory

This portrait of James Gregory at the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh depicts the prominent physician and professor of medicine at Edinburgh University. Gregory was famous for his irascible temperament and his Gregory’s Powder, a popular remedy, and his portrait reflects the medical profession’s central role in Enlightenment Edinburgh. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays bold, direct brushwork building form through vigorous strokes of light and shadow rather than careful blending, with minimal underdrawing.

Raeburn captures the physician’s forceful personality through bold characterization. The direct, unflinching portrayal conveys both professional authority and individual temperament with characteristic vigor.