The late 1680s, when Godfrey Kneller created this portrait, are considered the zenith years of the artist’s career. The young professional wears a hairstyle that was fashionable at the time: the corkscrew wig. It was common for men of standing to own at least two wigs, so that one would always be ready. Some men would cut their own hair and re-purpose it for a wig, while others would fashion one from their wives’ hair.