Edmund Keene (1714–1781), Master (1748–1754), Bishop of Chester and Ely

Johann Zoffany painted this portrait of Edmund Keene, Bishop of Chester and Ely, in 1768, during his most productive period as a portraitist to English institutional and aristocratic clients. Keene had served as Master of Peterhouse, Cambridge, and the portrait now hangs in the college — a function Zoffany's work frequently served in this period, providing institutions with visual records of their distinguished members. Zoffany's approach to clerical portraiture balanced the dignity expected of episcopal rank with the specificity of individual character that made his portraits convincing likenesses. The 1768 date places this work within the period when Zoffany was enjoying royal favour — he had been introduced to George III through Lord Bute and received several court commissions — and his success with clerical and institutional clients ran in parallel with his grander royal and aristocratic work.

The sitter is depicted in three-quarter length in clerical robes, the dark canonical dress creating tonal contrast with the illuminated face. Zoffany's flesh painting is assured and characterful, giving the face specificity and presence. The handling is freer than in his large conversation piece compositions, with costume rendered in broad, confident strokes.