Edwin stands in the middle of the Harewood estate, with Harewood House in the background. Surrounded by his land and country seat, Edwin is shown with the markers of power, wealth and status traditionally associated with the aristocracy and ‘old money’.

The solid-looking oak behind Edwin suggests the stability and longevity of his family and house. Edwin is painted in a confident, open stance, surveying his country estate with pride. With one hand in his pocket and a hat tucked under his arm, he is presented informally and at leisure.

Edwin wears a red jacket and waistcoat, embroidered with gold and accompanied by expensive silk and lace accessories. He also wears a powdered wig, an essential accessory of male status in Reynolds’ day.

In this portrait, Reynolds builds a carefully constructed picture of wealth, status, class, family dynasty and power. It tells us how Edwin wanted his identity to be perceived by both his contemporaries and his descendants.