Jancis Robinson on Michael

Fig 10 Michael, still extolling the virtues of Keene’s line as he studies his extensive collection, 66 years after first encountering the artist’s work. Photographed by Charles Marsden-Smedley in December 2018.

Fig 11 A study by Charles Keene for his painting The Complaint which appeared in Punch, 12th August, 1865 (pen and brown ink over pencil, 13.3 x 18.7 cm).

Two other influences on Michael the artist emerged during the 1950s. One was his fondness for cycling – something that stayed with him throughout his career. He once told me: ‘I would cycle round London sketching buildings.’

The other was the artist Charles Keene, of whom Michael is a passionate admirer: ‘In 1952 I went to an exhibition of his in St James’s,’ he said. ‘I became hooked on Keene. His line was loose and charming and absolutely spot-on.’