Charles Seymour, Duke of Somerset Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a gentleman in three-quarter profile, his gaze directed towards the viewer. He is positioned against a plain background, which serves to emphasize his figure and attire. The artist has rendered him with meticulous detail, particularly evident in the depiction of his elaborate wig – a cascade of tightly curled hair that dominates the upper portion of the composition. This hairstyle, characteristic of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, signals status and adherence to contemporary fashion.
The gentleman is clad in a loose-fitting shirt with an open collar, revealing a glimpse of what appears to be a waistcoat beneath. The fabric drapes softly around his form, suggesting a degree of comfort and affluence. His left hand rests upon a cushion or draped cloth, while the right arm is bent at the elbow, creating a sense of relaxed posture. A small, intricately designed emblem – likely a coat of arms – is positioned below his name inscription.
The lighting in this engraving is carefully controlled; it illuminates the gentleman’s face and upper body, highlighting the contours of his features and lending them a certain solemnity. The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates tonal variations that define form and texture, contributing to the overall realism of the portrait.
Beyond the straightforward representation of a man, the engraving conveys subtexts related to power and social standing. The meticulous rendering of details – the wig, the clothing, the emblem – all contribute to an image of refined gentility and aristocratic privilege. The direct gaze establishes a connection with the viewer, suggesting confidence and authority. The plain background reinforces this sense of importance by removing any distractions from the subject’s presence. Overall, the engraving functions as a visual declaration of status and belonging within a hierarchical society.