Monsieur de St Evremont Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723)

The engraving presents a portrait of a man, rendered in a style characteristic of late 17th or early 18th-century European printmaking. The subject is positioned within an oval frame, which itself sits against a textured background suggesting a lightly ruled surface. Above the figure, inscribed in elegant script, are the words Paix et Peu, seemingly a motto or dedication. Below the image, the name “Monsieur De St. Evremont” is clearly displayed.
The man’s features dominate the composition. He appears to be of mature age, with a somewhat melancholic expression conveyed through finely etched lines around his eyes and mouth. His hair, styled in voluminous curls typical of the period, frames his face, while a dark cap sits atop his head. The artist has meticulously detailed the texture of his wig, creating a sense of volume and realism. He wears a clerical or academic garment, with a broad collar framing his neck and a dark robe draped over his shoulders. The rendering of the fabric suggests a degree of formality and status.
The engraving’s use of light and shadow is crucial to its effect. Cross-hatching techniques are employed extensively to model the face and clothing, creating depth and volume. The play of light across the subjects features emphasizes his age and perhaps hints at a contemplative nature.
Subtleties within the image suggest further layers of meaning. The phrase Paix et Peu (Peace and Little) could allude to a life characterized by moderation or quiet contemplation, possibly reflecting St. Evremont’s known reputation as a man of letters and a courtier who favored discretion. The formal attire indicates his position within the social hierarchy, likely suggesting an individual of some importance. The overall impression is one of dignified reserve, conveying a sense of intellectual depth and perhaps even a touch of world-weariness. The meticulous detail in the engraving suggests respect for the subject and a desire to capture not just his likeness but also something of his character.