Grinling Gibbons Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a male figure in a three-quarter pose, set against a densely hatched background that creates a sense of depth and shadow. He is depicted with a confident gaze directed towards the viewer, his expression suggesting intelligence and perhaps a touch of self-assurance. The man’s hair is rendered in elaborate curls, characteristic of late 17th or early 18th century fashion, cascading around his shoulders and down his back. His attire consists of a loose-fitting jacket draped over what appears to be a simple shirt; the fabric folds are carefully delineated through shading, adding volume and texture.
The most striking element is the presence of a sculpted head resting on a stone block in front of him. He holds a tool – likely a chisel or gouge – in his hand, poised as if about to engage with the sculpture. This detail strongly implies that he is an artisan, specifically a sculptor. The placement of the tools and the unfinished state of the bust suggest a moment captured mid-process, hinting at the creative act itself.
The composition’s arrangement conveys several subtexts. The inclusion of the sculpture serves not only to identify his profession but also to present him as someone who creates beauty from raw material. His direct gaze establishes a connection with the observer, inviting contemplation on the nature of artistry and skill. The dark background emphasizes the figures presence, isolating him within his craft.
The overall effect is one of dignified portraiture, celebrating not just an individual but also the tradition of craftsmanship and artistic creation prevalent in the period. The engraving’s technical execution – the meticulous rendering of details through hatching and cross-hatching – underscores the artists respect for their subject and his own skill as a printmaker.