John Gilbert (1817-1897)
Sir John Gilbert (he became knight in 1871) was self taught artist with only some education at at George Lance (1802–1864), who excelled in color (mostly oil) paintings and black and white illustrations. Self taught? He was actually rejected when he tried to enter the Royal Academy Schools but this didn't stop him.
Next example is from Johan David Wyss' The Swiss Family Robinson, adventure novel for children or, as we say today young adult audience:
John Gilbert was contemporary of John Leech (1817-1864), John Tenniel (1820-1914), Hablot Knight Browne aka Phiz (1815-1882) and started his career as a clerk, just like Arthur Rackham (1867-1939), with whom he is somehow connected through romantic tradition.
He illustrated works from Charles Dickens, William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, Sir Walter Scott, John Milton Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and was one of the most expensive illustrators in the world of his time. His works are usually signed with J striking through G in left corner of the picture. Of course he illustrated for Punch too.
Gilbert was without doubt one of the most productive black and white artists of all times. Known by his skill and speed (he was able to make a full page illustration while messenger with an order was waiting) he can be probably compared only to Gustave Dore. He made tens of thousands illustrations for magazines only!
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