Spencer Compton, Earl of Wilmington Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a gentleman in three-quarter profile, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured expression. He is depicted against a plain background, which serves to emphasize his figure and attire. The artist has rendered him with meticulous detail, particularly evident in the elaborate coiffure that cascades around his shoulders – a hallmark of fashionable male hairstyles during the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
The gentleman’s clothing is indicative of his high social standing. A white shirt with a lace jabot is visible beneath a grey coat, fastened at the neck with what appears to be a decorative closure. He wears a cross suspended from a ribbon, likely signifying membership in an order of chivalry or a similar prestigious association. The rendering of fabric textures – the sheen of the shirt, the drape of the coat – demonstrates considerable skill on the part of the engraver.
The composition is formal and restrained, characteristic of portraiture intended to convey dignity and authority. His hand rests gently upon his hip, a gesture that suggests both composure and control. The inclusion of a crest or coat-of-arms at the bottom of the image reinforces his noble status and lineage.
Subtleties within the engraving suggest more than just a straightforward representation. The slight downward curve of his mouth might imply a certain seriousness or perhaps even a hint of melancholy, adding depth to his characterization. The precision with which the artist has captured the details of his face – the lines around his eyes, the subtle shading on his nose – suggests an attempt to portray not just physical likeness but also psychological insight. Overall, the engraving functions as a visual declaration of status and authority, while simultaneously hinting at a more complex inner life.