Thomas Wharton, Marquis of Wharton Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

Here we observe a portrait rendered in a style characteristic of late 17th and early 18th-century English engraving. The subject is presented in a three-quarter pose, allowing for a detailed depiction of his attire and facial features. He faces slightly towards the left, with his gaze directed forward, conveying an impression of composure and authority.
The man’s elaborate peruke dominates the composition, its voluminous curls meticulously rendered to suggest both wealth and adherence to fashionable trends. The texture of the hair is carefully indicated through cross-hatching, creating a sense of depth and volume. His clothing consists of a dark coat with prominent rows of buttons down the front, suggesting a formal occasion or status. A loosely draped cloth falls over his left shoulder, adding visual interest and softening the rigidity of the pose. The hand extending from beneath the fabric is positioned in a gesture that appears relaxed but controlled.
The artist has employed chiaroscuro techniques to model the subject’s face, highlighting certain features while leaving others in shadow. This creates a sense of three-dimensionality and emphasizes his prominent brow and chin. The shading around the eyes suggests an intelligent and observant character.
Beneath the image, inscribed text identifies the individual as Thomas Wharton, Marquis of Wharton, accompanied by his coat of arms – a visual marker of nobility and lineage. The inclusion of this heraldic symbol reinforces the subject’s elevated social standing and serves to legitimize his position within the established order.
The overall effect is one of dignified restraint. While the elaborate costume and hairstyle signal a man of considerable means, the pose and expression convey an air of seriousness and intellectual engagement rather than overt display. The engravings monochrome palette contributes to this sense of formality and timelessness, suggesting a portrait intended for posterity – a record of a personage worthy of remembrance.