Engraved Portrait of Daniel Finch, 2nd Earl of Nottingham

A handsome eighteenth-century engraved portrait of Daniel Finch, 2nd Earl of Nottingham (1647–1730), an influential English statesman and prominent figure in British political history. Presented in a black frame with delicate gilt detailing and a rich crimson mat, this finely executed engraving captures the elaborate portraiture and heraldic ornament associated with the English aristocracy.

The composition depicts Finch in formal aristocratic dress, wearing a long curled wig, an ermine-trimmed mantle, and a lace cravat. His portrait is enclosed within an elaborate oval cartouche bearing the inscription Daniel Earl of Nottingham. Surrounding architectural scrollwork, acanthus ornament, and a richly detailed heraldic achievement complete the composition, with the Finch family coat of arms prominently displayed beneath the portrait.

The engraving bears the inscription In the possession of the Countess Dowager of Nottingham, identifying the ownership of the original portrait from which the engraving was produced. The lower margins credit G. Kneller pinx. and J. Houbraken sculp., identifying the original portraitist as Sir Godfrey Kneller and the engraver as Jacobus Houbraken.

Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646–1723) was one of the most celebrated portrait painters working in England during the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, serving as principal painter to successive British monarchs. Jacobus Houbraken (1698–1780), a distinguished Dutch engraver, became particularly renowned for his finely detailed portraits of British historical figures. His engravings were frequently published in important eighteenth-century collections of historical biography and portraiture.

Daniel Finch served as Secretary of State under William III and Queen Anne and later as Lord President of the Council. A significant figure in the political affairs of his time, he was known for his Tory affiliations and longstanding involvement in the government of England and Great Britain. This engraving preserves his likeness within the grand visual language of eighteenth-century aristocratic portraiture.

A wonderful addition to a traditional library, study, or English-inspired interior, this engraving offers both historical interest and decorative appeal. Its elaborate heraldic composition and crimson matting make it particularly handsome displayed among antique portraits, architectural prints, and other works on paper.

Origin: England, published for the British market; engraved by a Dutch artist, 18th century
Subject: Daniel Finch, 2nd Earl of Nottingham (1647–1730)
Original Portrait: Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646–1723)
Engraver: Jacobus Houbraken (1698–1780)
Medium: Copperplate engraving on paper
Inscription: In the possession of the Countess Dowager of Nottingham
Presentation: Framed beneath glass with crimson matting and black-and-gilt frame
Dimensions: 18.75" L x 13.25" W
Condition: Antique condition with visible age-related toning, foxing, and discoloration to the paper, particularly along the margins. The frame and matting show minor wear consistent with age and handling. Please refer to photographs for details.