Kneller

Sir Godfrey Kneller, 1st Baronet (1646 – 1723), was a German-born British Baroque portrait painter. He became the leading portraitist in England during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, serving as court painter to English and British monarchs from Charles II to George I.

Kneller's style was characterized by its elegance and flattering portrayals of his sitters. He often employed a large studio with assistants to help with the production of his numerous commissions, allowing him to paint portraits of many prominent figures of his time. His works can be found in numerous national and international collections.

His full name at birth was Gottfried Kniller, and he was born in Lübeck, Germany. He initially studied in Leiden and later with Rembrandt in Amsterdam, before moving to England in 1676. He was knighted by William III in 1692 and created a baronet by George I in 1715, making him the first artist to be so honored.

Kneller's prolific output and influence established him as a dominant figure in British art for decades. He is known for his series of portraits of the members of the Kit-Cat Club and for his state portraits of the monarchs he served. His legacy continues to be recognized in the history of British portraiture.