Charles Howard, Earl of Carlisle Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

Here we observe a portrait rendered in a style characteristic of late seventeenth or early eighteenth-century engraving. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, presented in a three-quarter pose that allows for a display of both his face and attire. He gazes directly forward, establishing a connection with the viewer, while his body is turned slightly to his left.
The most striking feature is undoubtedly the elaborate peruke cascading around his head. The meticulous rendering of individual curls suggests considerable skill on the part of the engraver; it also emphasizes the subject’s status and adherence to contemporary fashion. Beneath the wig, a crisp white cravat frames his face, drawing attention to his features – a relatively straight nose, full lips, and attentive eyes.
He wears a coat with a complex arrangement of buttons down the front, indicative of quality tailoring and wealth. In his right hand, he holds a walking stick, an accessory that signifies both gentility and potential travel or outdoor pursuits. The posture is one of controlled dignity; there’s no overt display of emotion, but rather a sense of quiet authority.
Below the image, a coat of arms and inscription identify him as “Charles Howard, Earl of Carlisle.” This detail immediately establishes his noble standing within society. The inclusion of the heraldic emblem reinforces this association with lineage, tradition, and inherited power.
Subtly, the engraving conveys more than just a likeness. The careful attention to detail in the rendering of fabric textures – the sheen of the coat, the softness of the cravat – suggests an emphasis on material wealth and refined taste. The direct gaze implies confidence and perhaps even a desire for recognition or remembrance. Overall, this is a carefully constructed image designed to project an aura of aristocratic status, dignity, and social importance.