Francis Glisson (1597–1677) graduated MD at Cambridge University and he was appointed Professor of Physic there soon after, an office he held until he died. Glisson promoted inquiries into natural and experimental philosophy. He published pioneering work on the cellular envelope of the vena porta which has led to his name becoming associated with this part of the body: ‘Glisson’s capsule’ refers to cells that surround the kidney and thyroid.

The artist is unknown although it is possibly thought to have been William Faithorne. The date and acquisition of the painting are also unknown and it has been in the possession of the Royal College of Physicians since the early eighteenth century.