Charles Keene

Thomas Agnew & Sons, London, where bought by Sir David Scott, 30 June 1965 for £50 

SHEET Laid on to board, taped to the mount. MEDIUM There are two small small spots to the paint surface, one on the shoulder of man on the left, another spot on the coat of the man on the right They appear to be spots of repair where someone has painted over probable surface abrasion to the paper.Otherwise good overall condition. FRAME Held in a simple wood frame; under glass.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Born in Hornsey in London, Charles Keene trained first as a lawyer and then as an architect. He was then apprenticed as a wood engraver. This led to employment on the Illustrated London News. Keene was friendly with Henry Silver, one of the writers at Punch and in 1851 some of his drawings accompanied articles by Silver in the magazine. After the death of John Leech in 1864, Keene became one of Punch's principal illustrators. He also contributed a large number of illustrations to the journal Once a Week.