Robert Peake published a number of engravings by William Faithorne, who, after studying for three years under John Payne, returned to work under his former master's son.
[4] When the Civil War broke out, Peake fought on the Royalist side, defending the stronghold of Basing House from the Parliamentarian forces.
Peake acted as lieutenant-governor of the Royalist forces in Basing House under the command of John Paulet, 5th Marquis of Winchester.
He was subsequently released, but exiled from England for refusing to take the oath of allegiance to Protector Oliver Cromwell.
Charles II appointed him vice-president and leader of the Honourable Artillery Company under James, Duke of York.