Original Oil Paintings
Portrait
Commissions
A unique original oil portrait of you, a loved one, or a cherished subject — painted by hand, no sitting required.
Ramsay Allan is a contemporary Scottish oil painter based in Angus, creating original portraits for collectors across Scotland, the wider UK and internationally. He paints portraits from reference photographs — meaning you don't need to sit for hours in a studio. Simply provide clear reference photographs of your subject and Ramsay will create a hand-painted original oil painting that truly captures their character and spirit.
Previous Commissions
Stan
Oil on canvas · Private commission
Mona
Oil on canvas
Sold · Private commission
Portrait Study of Eva
Oil on canvas · Private commission
Head Rest (Eva)
Oil on linen · 60 × 50 cm · 2026
Available · £3,800
Helen Beatrice Milne
Oil on linen · 50 × 40 cm · 2026
Available · £3,500
Janet Ogilvy
Oil on linen · 50 × 40 cm · 2026
Available · £3,750
Ewen Mitchell, Antique Dealer
Oil on canvas · 50 × 40 cm · 2026
Sold · Private commission
Emma
Oil on canvas · 50 × 40 cm · 2026
Available · £2,750
Nico
Oil on canvas · 50 × 40 cm · 2025
Sold · Private commission
Nico is a commissioned pet portrait painted against a deep blue ground, bringing warmth and clarity to his pale coat. His attentive look and calm, frontal pose give the painting an affectionate and dignified presence. Created as a lasting personal portrait, the work now resides with the client.
"I'm absolutely delighted with the portraits Ramsay painted for me. He's done three for me so far, and each one has been stunning. His work is not only exceptional quality, but also fantastic value for money."
— Astrid McKendrick
How it Works
The Commission Process
01
Get in Touch
Begin with a friendly, no-obligation conversation — complete the Contact form or email info@ramsayallan.com, describing who or what you'd like painted, the size, and any special requirements. Ramsay replies personally to every enquiry.
02
Reference Photos
A sitting is not usually required. Ramsay generally works from high-quality reference photographs, which clients are welcome to provide. Alternatively, Ramsay can arrange a personal visit to discuss the composition and take photographs himself, or professional photography can be arranged according to your requirements.
03
Painted in Oil
Using traditional oil painting techniques and high-quality materials, Ramsay creates an original work on canvas, capturing the character and essence of your subject.
04
Delivered to You
Your finished original oil painting is carefully packaged and shipped to you with a certificate of authenticity and full documentation.
Questions About Portrait Commissions
How do I commission an oil portrait?
Complete the website contact form or email info@ramsayallan.com, describing your subject, preferred size and any special requirements. Ramsay replies personally to discuss your ideas and provide a quotation.
How much does a commissioned portrait cost?
Original oil portrait commissions typically begin at £1,200. Larger or more complex works are quoted individually, and you receive a personalised quotation before committing to anything.
How long does a portrait commission take?
Timescales are agreed individually for each commission. The anticipated completion date is discussed during the initial consultation and set according to the requirements of the painting and Ramsay's existing studio commitments.
Can a portrait be painted from photographs?
Yes. No sitting is required — Ramsay paints entirely from reference photographs. Clear, well-lit images of your subject in good lighting work best.
Can commissioned portraits be shipped outside Scotland?
Yes. Shipping can be arranged for clients throughout the UK and internationally. Shipping arrangements and costs are discussed individually, depending on the painting's size, destination and packaging requirements.
Commission Details
Medium
Original oil on canvas
Turnaround
Agreed individually
Pricing
Individually quoted
Original oil portrait commissions typically begin at £1,200. Each portrait is individually painted in oils, with careful attention to the character and personality of the subject. Larger or more complex compositions are quoted individually, with a personalised quotation provided before any commitment.
Timescales are agreed individually for each commission: the anticipated completion date is discussed during the initial consultation and set according to the size and complexity of the painting and existing studio commitments. Shipping can be arranged for clients throughout the UK and internationally, with arrangements and costs discussed individually depending on the painting's size, destination and packaging. To discuss your commission enquiry, complete the Contact form or email Ramsay directly at info@ramsayallan.com — he is happy to talk through your vision and provide a personalised quote.