The artist Thomas Duncan was born at Kinclaven and educated at Perth Academy, together with lifelong friend David Octavius Hill. In 1827 Duncan enrolled at the Trustees’ Academy in Edinburgh, where he studied under William Allan. The following year he exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy and, due to the success of his work, was elected a full member in 1829. Duncan established a significant portrait studio, but he is better known for his narrative works inspired by Scottish history and the novels of Sir Walter Scott. From 1838 until his untimely death in 1845 Duncan worked as a professor at the Trustees’ Academy.