Joseph Addison, Esquire Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a portrait bust of a gentleman, rendered in a style characteristic of late 17th and early 18th-century English portraiture. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, facing forward with a direct gaze towards the viewer. He wears an elaborate peruke, its voluminous curls meticulously detailed through fine lines that suggest both texture and volume. His attire consists of a dark coat with a broad collar, fastened by a visible button.
The composition is framed within an oval border, which itself sits upon a decorative cartouche. This cartouche bears an inscription identifying the subject as Joseph Addison Esq. along with his date of death: “Died 17 June 1719.” The inclusion of this information suggests a commemorative purpose for the engraving, intended to preserve his likeness and mark his passing.
The artist’s skill is evident in the rendering of light and shadow, which creates a sense of depth and volume on the subjects face and clothing. Subtle shading around the eyes and mouth conveys a degree of character and personality. The overall effect is one of formality and dignity, befitting a man of apparent status and intellect.
The engraving’s placement within the Universal Magazine indicates its intended audience was literate and engaged with current events and cultural figures. This suggests that Addison held some level of public recognition or esteem at the time of his death. The meticulous detail in the engravings execution, along with the formal presentation, implies a desire to portray him as an individual worthy of remembrance and respect within the broader intellectual landscape of the era.