Cannie! 1870 - 1891

Charles Samuel Keene made this drawing, entitled 'Cannie!', using ink on paper. The drawing’s strength lies in its simplicity and directness. The artist's skilled handling of the ink medium is evident in the fine lines and subtle shading that bring depth and texture to the scene. Keene has captured a fleeting moment, drawing the viewer into the encounter with the two men standing at the door, creating a scene that is both intimate and relatable. Consider the social context of Keene's time; the mid-19th century was a period of great social change and industrial expansion in Britain. The drawing reflects the artist's careful observation of everyday life, portraying the working class with empathy and respect, providing insights into the lives and experiences of ordinary people, and challenging conventional notions of art and beauty. Keene's engagement with the everyday, combined with his mastery of the ink medium, exemplifies his ability to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, bridging the gap between fine art and craft.