Portrait of Daniel, Earl of Nottingham Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a formal portrait of a man of high standing. He is depicted within an oval frame, elaborately ornamented with scrolling foliage and decorative cartouches. The figures gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of authority and composure.
Here we see a gentleman in his middle years, characterized by a full face and a somewhat melancholic expression. His hair, styled in voluminous curls typical of the late 17th or early 18th century, frames his head and cascades down his shoulders. He is draped in what appears to be a ceremonial cloak, richly embroidered with heraldic symbols that suggest nobility and lineage. A jeweled hat rests upon his head, further emphasizing his elevated status.
The artist has employed a technique of chiaroscuro, using contrasts between light and shadow to model the figure’s features and create depth within the composition. The shading is particularly evident in the rendering of the hair and cloak, which adds texture and visual interest.
Below the oval frame sits an elaborate shield bearing a coat of arms, further reinforcing the subjects aristocratic identity. The inscription around the perimeter identifies him as Earl and specifies his title, solidifying his position within the established social hierarchy.
The overall effect is one of dignified solemnity. The portrait seems intended to project an image of power, responsibility, and inherited privilege. It’s likely a commissioned work designed to commemorate the subjects status and ensure his legacy within the visual record of the time.