Portrait of Lord Chancellor William Cowper (d.1723), half-length, in ceremonial robes, feigned oval

This picture derives from a full-length portrait by Richardson of Lord Chancellor Cowper formerly in the collection of Lady Desborough, Panshanger, Hertfordshire, now at Firle, Sussex. William Cowper, first Earl Cowper was created Baron Cowper in 1706. During a distinguished legal and political career he took the position of Lord Chancellor twice, from 1707-1710 and from 1714-1718. He presided over many important trials, advised George I on the parliamentary parties and supported the Whig interest in the Lord's.