Portrait of Grinling Gibbons Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The drawing presents a man in three-quarter pose, seated and turned slightly towards the viewers left. He is depicted with considerable attention to detail, particularly regarding his elaborate hairstyle and clothing. The sitter’s hair cascades around his shoulders in voluminous curls, suggesting a fashionable style of the late 17th century. His attire consists of a loose-fitting coat or waistcoat, rendered with careful shading that indicates folds and texture.
The man holds a set of tools – a chisel and what appears to be a compass – in his left hand, resting them on an open sheet of paper placed upon his lap. This detail is significant; it implies the sitter’s profession as someone engaged in skilled craftsmanship, likely involving design or carving. The paper itself seems to contain some form of diagram or sketch, further reinforcing this notion.
The artist has employed a technique that emphasizes light and shadow to create depth and volume. Noticeable are the highlights on his face, hair, and clothing, which contrast sharply with the darker areas, contributing to a sense of realism. The shading is not uniform; it varies in intensity to suggest form and texture.
A subtle air of self-assurance emanates from the sitters expression. His gaze is directed forward, conveying intelligence and perhaps a degree of pride in his work. The posture – relaxed yet upright – further contributes to this impression of quiet confidence.
The background is minimally rendered, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the figure. This simplicity serves to isolate him and highlight his importance as the subject of the drawing. Inscriptions at the bottom identify the sitter and the artist, providing contextual information without disrupting the visual impact of the portrait. The overall effect is one of dignified representation, suggesting a man of skill, status, and refinement.