In truth, modern day tartans(with the exceptions of those custom-created since about 1800) were products of mill weavers and have not semblence on their own or connection to any Clan. However, a Clan tartan can be designated by the Laird of that Clan. Then, and only then, is that tartan officially associated witn that Clan. Many Clans have addopted tartans sharing a similar name to their Clan, but others, such as the Hunter Clan, have commissioned their own tartan to directly reflect the Clan and it's history. After, and pending approval of the Lord Lyon, a sett is officially created and becomes a tartan.

Also, the tartan itself was just a fabric woven and similar shades were usually present throughought a region, though different patterns may exist, due to similar local plant dyes used for dying wool. Also, in regard to the paintings, many were stock photos used by traveling painters who would leave the head areas of stock paintings blank and paint them in when a client desired that painting. Thus, the tartan may have had no resemblance to what the person painted in may have been wearing at the time. Thus, inconsitinces is tartan history through paintings is rather unnacurate.

Or, in shortwind, Clan Tartans are only a Clan Tartan if selected and adopted by the Laird. Otherwise, it's just a mill stock sett with a name that a clan may share.