A Cloaked Figure Passing Through the Street (at the Time of the Plague in London)

Keene was born in 1823 in Hornsey, London. He began his artistic career as a wood engraver, but soon turned to illustration and became a regular contributor to Punch magazine. He was known for his detailed and realistic drawings, often with humorous or satirical themes. Keene's work was highly regarded by his contemporaries, including Vincent van Gogh, who collected his illustrations. He also influenced a generation of artists, including Aubrey Beardsley and Edward Gorey. Keene died in 1891, but his legacy lives on through his art and the influence he had on the field of illustration.