Brief Biography-Charles Le Brun, the historical painter, was born in Paris. His parents first noticed his talents when he was aged eleven, and the atelier of Simon Vouet admitted him. He came to the attention of Nicolas Poussin, whom he eventually accompanied to Rome for four years. Poussin influenced him; however, the style of Vouet ran through colours in most of his paintings. In Rome, the works of Annibale Carracci had an impression on him. He was also a portraitist and a dedicated draughtsman.
When he returned to Paris, he received numerous commissions and became the director of the Gobelins Manufactory. He was head of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture and was active in founding The French Academy in Rome. He was notably known for his works in the Palace of Versailles; for example, the Family of Darius before Alexander was one of many. King Louis XIV made him the principal painter and bestowed him the Order of Saint Michael. The King frequently honoured Le Brun with his presence at work on the Battles of Alexander, per The Rev Pilkington. His rival Pierre Mignard succeeded in his position after his death in 1690.