Charles H. (Charles Henry) Bennett

Charles Henry Bennett was a British illustrator born in Covent Garden, London, and active during the Victorian era. He began by contributing small drawings to short-lived London periodicals before becoming known for his distinctive comic style and elaborate visual humor. He was also a founder member of the Savage Club, a literary and artistic society.

Bennett illustrated more than a dozen children’s books, including Old Nurse’s Book of Rhymes, Jingles & Ditties, The Nine Lives of a Cat, The Adventures of Young Munchausen, and The Sorrowful Ending of Noodledoo. He also created celebrated illustrations for Aesop’s Fables, Pilgrim’s Progress, Shadow and Substance, and London People: Sketched from Life.

From 1865 until shortly before his death, Bennett contributed regularly to Punch, producing nearly 200 drawings signed with his characteristic “CHB” monogram. He died in London on April 2, 1867, leaving behind a large body of work admired for its originality, energy, and affectionate humor.