John Deffett Francis was a printmaker and draughtsman who became renowned for his generous donations of art and books to public institutions. His collection of works on paper, including a large number of drawings by Wilson, formed the nucleus of Swansea's Art Gallery, alongside that of Richard Glynn Vivian. He also presented much material to the British Museum, including a large number of Wilson drawings.
Francis devoted himself to painting, particularly portraiture, and eventually went to London where he became acquainted with Dickens, Thackeray and Ruskin and was one of the founders of the Savage Club. He painted portraits of Queen Victoria, Sir Robert Peel and other notables, of which several were engraved. He exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1846 and at other exhibitions between 1837 and 1860.
Collector's marks: Lugt 945; 1444-1447
