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Thomas Pennant (1726-98) of Downing, Flintshire, was a leading naturalist, traveller, and antiquarian. His publications included Tours in Wales 1778 and 1781. Dr Johnson describes him as 'the best traveller I have ever read' and he did much to encourage interest in the topography and history of Wales. His British Zoology and Arctic Zoology brought him academic acclaim. This portrait shows Gainsborough's relaxed informality and his characteristic loose feathery brushwork.