Nicholas Rowe Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The drawing presents a man in a formal pose, viewed from the chest upwards. He is positioned centrally within the frame, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured expression. The artist has rendered him in a style characteristic of portraiture prevalent during the late seventeenth or early eighteenth century.
A prominent feature is the elaborate coiffure; voluminous curls cascade around his head and shoulders, meticulously detailed through fine lines that suggest both texture and volume. This hairstyle, indicative of fashionable trends, contributes to an overall impression of status and refinement. The man’s attire consists of a draped garment – likely a cloak or robe – and a crisp white shirt collar, the folds of which are carefully delineated to create depth and form.
The lighting is even, illuminating his face without harsh contrasts, allowing for a clear depiction of his features: a slightly rounded jawline, full cheeks, and a composed mouth. The artist has employed cross-hatching techniques extensively throughout the drawing, creating tonal variations that define the contours of the figure and impart a sense of three-dimensionality.
Beyond the surface representation, the portrait conveys an aura of intellectual gravitas. His direct gaze suggests confidence and perhaps a degree of self-awareness. The formality of his pose and attire implies a position of authority or importance within society. It is likely that this individual was intended to be perceived as someone of considerable standing – a man of letters, a politician, or a patron of the arts. The meticulous detail in the rendering suggests an effort to immortalize him not merely as a likeness but also as a symbol of his era’s values and aspirations.