The son of the Director of the Military Hospital at Calais, Francia came to London in 1790; he worked as a drawing master, and joined the circle of artists who gathered at Dr Monro's house in the Adelphi (see lot 66). In 1799 he became a founder-member (and Secretary) of the sketching society known as 'The Brothers', a group that included Thomas Girtin (1775-1802). In 1817 Francia returned to Calais, where he described himself as Secretary to the British Consul; here he instructed and encouraged the young R.P. Bonington (1802-1828). Francia painted numerous marine, harbour and beach scenes in Calais and its neighbourhood. In 1834 he played a leading role in establishing a lifeboat service through 'La Société Humaine et des Naufragés'.