Portrait of Henry Stafford, Duke of Buckingham Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a man in formal attire within an oval frame, set against a plain background. He is depicted from the chest upwards, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a solemn expression. The subjects face exhibits a fleshy quality, accentuated by carefully rendered shading that defines the contours of his nose and chin. A richly detailed pearl necklace adorns his neck, its intricate design contributing to an overall impression of wealth and status. He wears a jeweled cap, further emphasizing his noble standing.
Below the portrait, a heraldic scene unfolds. Here we see figures in period clothing gathered around a shield bearing what appears to be a coat of arms. The arrangement suggests a formal presentation or declaration of lineage. A banner unfurls beneath this scene, displaying a name in elegant lettering: HENRY STAFFORD DUKE OF BUCKINGHAM. This inscription explicitly identifies the subject of the portrait and his title.
The engraving’s style points to a deliberate attempt at conveying authority and dignity. The use of chiaroscuro – the contrast between light and shadow – adds depth and volume, lending the figure a sense of presence. The meticulous detail in the rendering of fabrics and jewelry suggests an emphasis on material wealth and refinement.
Subtly, the composition hints at themes of power and lineage. The heraldic scene reinforces the subject’s noble heritage and claims to authority. The formal pose and direct gaze convey a sense of self-assurance and control. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed image designed to project an aura of importance and legitimacy.