Bennet specialised in genre paintings of historical subjects. He was born in Liverpool and studied at Clifton College, Bristol, then at the Slade School of Fine Art, St John’s Wood Art School and Royal Academy Schools, where he won a gold medal and traveling scholarship. Although his forte was the historical scene, both real and imaginary, he was an exceptionally fine portrait painter. He was a prolific exhibitor, showing at the major galleries of his era, including Dudley Gallery, the RA, RI and Paris Salon. His work was reproduced in print by Charles Hauff, L. Wolff & Co., Mardon Son & Hall and the Medici Society. He served on the committee of the Surrey Art Circle from 1902 and exhibited regularly with them. An example of his work is in the National Portrait Gallery.