Charles Dartiquenave, Esquire Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a gentleman in a three-quarter pose, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured expression. He is positioned against a plain background, which serves to emphasize his figure and attire. The artist has rendered him wearing a dark velvet coat, its texture suggested through meticulous cross-hatching, and a flowing white cravat that drapes across his chest in elegant folds.
A significant element of the portrait is the elaborate hairstyle; voluminous curls cascade around his head and shoulders, indicative of fashionable trends during the late seventeenth or early eighteenth century. The rendering of hair demonstrates considerable skill, with varying line weights used to create a sense of depth and volume.
Below the figure, an inscription identifies him as Charles Dartiquenave, Esquire. A small heraldic crest is positioned above his name, signifying his status and potentially indicating family lineage or professional affiliation. This detail reinforces the impression of a man of standing and importance.
The overall effect is one of restrained formality and dignified composure. The artist’s use of light and shadow creates a sense of three-dimensionality, while the precise lines convey a meticulous attention to detail. The portrait seems intended not only as a likeness but also as a statement of social position and personal character – a visual declaration of belonging to a specific echelon of society. The absence of any background elements beyond the plain backdrop suggests an emphasis on the individual’s inherent qualities rather than his surroundings or activities, further reinforcing this sense of self-contained authority.