Despite his unconventional technique, he considers himself an historical painter working with abstract subject matter.

His father, a historical painter, wished him to become a musician, but his taste was for art.

He was both an historical painter and a portraitist; but no work by him exists.

After the usual course of training he became a member of the Academy in 1717 as an historical painter.

For twenty years they worked painting landscape elements for other historical painters.

She was active as a historical painter in Venice.

But it is said that he found his portrait work dull and anticipated more kudos as a historical painter.

He is mainly known as a portrait and historical painter.

He was known as a historical and landscape painter.

In 1772, King George appointed him historical painter to the court at an annual fee of £1,000.