Benedetto Gennari trained in the Bolognese workshop of his uncle, Guercino, and would eventually take over the artist's studio alongside his brother, Cesare Gennari, following the master's death. In 1672, Benedetto traveled to Paris, where he enjoyed considerable success painting for members of the court of Louis XIV. After two years, he traveled to London, presenting his Diana and Endymion to King Charles II, who greatly admired his work.

Benedetto would remain in London for fourteen years, becoming a member of the court of Charles II, and later that of James II, during which time he painted numerous portraits, altarpieces and mythological compositions. James II appointed him First Painter to the King, an...