Portrait of Charles Howard, Earl of Nottingham Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a formal portrait of a man of considerable stature and authority. He is depicted from the chest upwards, set against an oval frame embellished with intricate scrollwork and foliage. The subjects face displays a solemn expression; his gaze is directed forward, conveying a sense of gravity and perhaps even austerity. A full beard, meticulously rendered in fine lines, dominates the lower portion of his face, contributing to an impression of age and experience. He wears a dark robe lined with fur, indicative of high rank, adorned with a decorative chain or collar bearing heraldic symbols. Upon his head rests a black cap trimmed with what appears to be ermine, further emphasizing his noble status.
Below the portrait, a complex allegorical scene unfolds. A cherubic figure, seemingly a putto, emerges from swirling waves, holding aloft a ships wheel. Behind this figure lies a detailed depiction of a large sailing vessel, its masts and rigging carefully delineated. The presence of maritime imagery suggests a connection to naval power or exploration, potentially alluding to the subject’s involvement in such endeavors.
The composition is structured to emphasize both individual dignity and broader societal roles. The portrait itself establishes the man as an important figure, while the lower scene introduces symbolic elements that expand upon his identity and accomplishments. The artists skillful use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and volume, enhancing the realism of the depiction.
The inclusion of the putto and ship wheel introduces a layer of symbolism beyond mere representation. It could signify guidance, navigation, or perhaps even divine favor associated with the subject’s leadership. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed grandeur, designed to project an image of power, responsibility, and connection to both terrestrial and potentially celestial realms.