William Ramsay

This portrait of William Ramsay shows him in a red velvet suit; an early representation of what would develop into an enduring fashion for velvet costumes. He appears to be in his twenties, possibly about to get married.

William Ramsay was a brother to Sir John Ramsay, who succeeded to the title. He was a Writer to the Signet (not listed in the 1983 Register) and acted as factor for Captain George Ramsay, a brother, and drew up legal documents for other relatives. He was still living in Dalkeith in 1712 and some of his correspondence survives, including letters about money problems.

This portrait is identified solely by its label: more research is needed.