James Butler, 1st Duke of Ormonde (1610-1688) Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a gentleman in a formal pose, seated and turned slightly towards the viewer. He is depicted within an oval frame, which emphasizes his centrality and importance. The mans age is evident in the lines etched around his eyes and mouth; he appears to be of advanced years, suggesting experience and authority. His hair, styled with elaborate curls, frames a face marked by a serious expression.
He wears a richly detailed garment – a broad-collared shirt adorned with lace, layered over what seems to be a military coat or doublet trimmed with fur. The texture of the fabrics is carefully rendered through meticulous cross-hatching and stippling techniques, conveying a sense of luxury and status. A large, ornate plinth supports his weight; it is decorated with elaborate carvings featuring foliage and a heraldic shield – a visual declaration of lineage and noble standing.
The lighting in the engraving is dramatic, highlighting the mans face and upper body while leaving the background in shadow. This contrast directs attention to his features and attire, reinforcing his prominence. The artist has employed a high level of detail throughout, particularly in rendering the intricate patterns of the lace and fur, as well as the delicate foliage on the plinth.
Beneath the image, script identifies the subject as James Duke of Ormonde, along with dates that likely mark the creation and/or publication of the print. The overall impression is one of dignified solemnity; it’s a portrait intended to convey power, lineage, and established authority – a visual testament to his position within the social hierarchy.