The artist in front of his easel

Perhaps Burne-Jones's favourite subject for his witty and often cutting caricatures, was himself. Usually depicting himself with gaunt cheeks, dishevelled hair and straggly beard, as here, he sends himself up as scruffy and somewhat chaotic. He also often appears in front of his easel, overwhelmed by the possibilities it offers.

Other sketches illustrate or satirise family or friends (William Morris was a frequent victim of Burne-Jones's most acerbic wit), or unknown people who the artist encountered during his day and found in some way amusing. These caricatures are often on his headed writing paper, and were sent to his children or closest friends, sometimes with descriptive letters.