Daniel Finch, 2nd Earl of Nottingham and 7th Earl of Winchilsea (1647-1730) Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a formal portrait of a man of considerable stature and rank. He is depicted from the chest up, positioned slightly off-center within an oval frame that emphasizes his presence. The artist has rendered him with meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of his elaborate wig, which cascades around his shoulders in dense, carefully sculpted curls. His expression is one of dignified composure; he gazes directly forward, conveying a sense of authority and self-assurance.
The man wears a richly embroidered cloak draped over his shoulders, suggesting nobility or high office. A white cravat adorns his neck, adding to the overall impression of refinement and status. To his right, resting on his arm, is what appears to be a crown, further reinforcing his elevated position within the social hierarchy.
Below the oval frame sits an ornate shield bearing a coat of arms. The intricate detailing of this heraldic emblem underscores the subject’s lineage and hereditary claims. The decorative flourishes surrounding both the portrait and the shield are characteristic of the periods aesthetic preferences for elaborate ornamentation, intended to convey grandeur and prestige.
The monochrome palette contributes to a sense of formality and timelessness. The stark contrast between light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the figure and accentuates the textures of his clothing and wig. This technique also lends an air of solemnity to the composition.
Subtly, the portrait communicates not only status but also restraint. There is a deliberate lack of overt emotion; the subject’s gaze is steady and controlled, suggesting a man accustomed to responsibility and self-discipline. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed image – a representation designed to project power, lineage, and unwavering composure.