Sir George Jeffreys, Welsh judge Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a man in formal attire, depicted from the chest upwards against a dark, uniform background. His gaze is directed towards the viewer with a directness that conveys authority and perhaps a degree of severity. The artist has rendered his features with meticulous detail, emphasizing a prominent nose, thin lips set in a firm line, and deep-set eyes. A complex arrangement of hair, styled into cascading curls and ringlets, frames his face and adds to the overall impression of elaborate formality.
The man’s clothing is richly detailed; he wears a dark robe lined with fur, indicative of high office. Across the chest, a decorative order or medal is visible, further reinforcing his status. The intricate patterns of the fabric are rendered through careful cross-hatching and stippling techniques, demonstrating considerable skill in engraving.
The darkness surrounding the figure serves to isolate him, drawing attention solely to his person and emphasizing his importance. This stark contrast contributes to a sense of solemnity and gravitas. The lighting is focused on his face, highlighting its features and creating subtle shadows that add depth and dimension.
Subtleties within the portrayal suggest more than just a straightforward representation of an individual. The rigid posture and unwavering gaze could be interpreted as signs of unyielding power or even intimidation. The elaborate hairstyle, while indicative of fashion at the time, also contributes to an image of artificiality and perhaps a detachment from genuine emotion. The overall effect is one of controlled formality, suggesting a man accustomed to wielding authority and maintaining a carefully constructed public persona.

The text beneath the engraving provides additional context, identifying the subject as Lord Chief Justice of England and referencing a specific date (1684). This information reinforces the impression of a figure holding significant legal power within the English system.