Subject: gentleman in black tie

Culture: international formal

Setting: evening formal

* Manchester Art Gallery > Dandy Style: 250 Years of British Men's Fashion

"Cecil Rowntree 1924 Thomas Cantrell Dugdale (1880-1952) Oil on canvas

Rowntree was a respected cancer surgeon and reportedly an excellent after-dinner speaker. He wears a formal dinner suit, the kind of outfit he would have been expected to put on for evening dinners and parties.

"The dark background enhances the image of restraint and simplicity here. Rowntree adopts a relaxed seated pose and is smoking, a socially acceptable and indeed stylish pursuit in the 1920s. It recalls the laid-back glamour of photographic portraits of male Hollywood film stars of the time. There is nothing flamboyant or individualistic about Rowntree's style. However his direct gaze, serious expression and the focus on his head and face provided by the black surround, suggest professional confidence and social ease."