Sir Thomas Hesketh, 1st Baronet Hesketh of Rufford (1727-1778)

attributed to Edward Penny, RA (Knutsford 1714 – Chiswick 1791). Oil painting on canvas, Sir Thomas Hesketh, 1st Baronet Hesketh of Rufford (1727-1778), attributed to Edward Penny, RA (Knutsford 1714 – Chiswick 1791), mid 18th century. Dated 1749 on the back of the canvas, although a separate piece of canvas has been inserted for the face. The traditional attribution to Penny is unlikely to be correct. A painted oval half-length portrait of a young man, turned to the right, gazing at the spectator, wearing a powdered wig, blue coat and embroidered white, linen stock. One of a pair, see the portrait of Mrs Farington, inv. no. 783194. Rufford Old Hall, Lancashire (Accredited Museum)