Sir Godfrey Kneller

Sir Godfrey Kneller was an English portrait painter born in 1646 and active until his death in 1723. He was a prominent figure in the Baroque art movement, known for his elegant and idealized portraits of the English aristocracy and notable figures of his time. Kneller served as the court painter to King William III and Queen Mary II, which significantly elevated his status and influence in the art world. His work is characterized by a blend of realism and idealism, contributing to the development of portraiture in England. Kneller's legacy includes a substantial body of work that remains significant in the study of 17th-century English art. The exact details of his early life and training are largely unknown.