Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723) - Algernon Capel 2nd Earl Of Essex (1670-1710)

A fine and sensitively rendered 17th-century English portrait of Algernon Capel, 2nd Earl of Essex (1670-1710), by the studio of Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723). The handsome sitter is depicted half-length, in armor, with a white crozier, and a wig. A soldier and courtier, he succeeded his father as second Earl of Essex in 1683, at the age of thirteen. Algernon Capel was closely associated with King William III and Queen Anne, as part of the Protestant succession supported by the Whigs. Contemporary commentaries state that Capel 'is a good fellow; he loves the interests of his country; he has no talent for business and never will devote himself to it; he is a well-bred gentleman; he is brown-complexioned and well-made, but his mouth is always open.' He also had a reputation as 'the most lewd young man in town'. In 1692, Capel married Mary, daughter of Hans Willem Bentinck (a favourite of King William and later 1st Earl of Portland), having been appointed a Gentleman of the Bedchamber upon William's accession in 1688. Capel also sat in the House of Lords and was Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, and later of Hertfordshire, from 1692 until his death, a post that put him in charge of the local militia. He distinguished himself at the Battle of Landen in 1693. Under Queen Anne, who succeeded him in 1702, he was promoted to major-general and, in 1707, to lieutenant-general of the Queen's own forces. He was also Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire. Capel also served as Constable of the Tower of London, although his father and grandfather were imprisoned there. His father was imprisoned in the Tower in 1683 on suspicion of involvement in the Rye House Plot, an assassination attempt against Charles II and his brother James. Before being tried, he was found in his cell, 'dead and lying in his own blood,' having probably cut his throat. The second Earl died suddenly in the Earl of Portland's lodgings in Whitehall, London, and was buried in Watford on 19 January 1710. Algernon survives in this captivating portrait, which not only hints at the sitter's military prowess through his costume, but also reveals his ebullient nature through the artist's keen observation of his character. This remarkable work is in excellent condition and is presented ready to hang and admire in its original 17th-century carved and gilded 'Lely' frame. High-resolution images available on request. International delivery available. Canvas: 86 cm x 67 cm. Framed: 105 cm x 85 cm.