Sir Godfrey Kneller was a prominent German portrait painter who became well-known in England during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Born in 1646, he moved to London where he gained fame for his detailed and vibrant portraits of notable figures, including members of the British royal family and influential politicians. Kneller was appointed as the official painter to King William III and later to Queen Anne. His style combined elements of Baroque and Rococo, and he was known for his ability to capture the personality and status of his subjects. He passed away in 1723, leaving a lasting legacy in portraiture.