Soyer, a celebrated Parisian chef, came to England in 1831, gaining popularity by working for a number of aristocrats before finding fame as chef of the Reform Club. Soyer is best-known for his philanthropic work, notably the introduction of the soup kitchen in poverty-stricken areas (particularly Ireland during the famine) and for providing nutrition for British and French soldiers during the Crimean War. This engraving accompanies a dispatch sent back to the ILN editor by Soyer, who was on his way to the Crimea at the time.