Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer (1636-1699) was born in Lille, France and trained in Antwerp, where he learned the still life painting techniques of the Low Countries. After returning to France, the artist received high profile commissions from Louis XIV, including decorative floral painting projects in the Queen's apartment at Seine and the Palace of Versailles.
Monnoyer's lavish surroundings pushed him to develop a bolder, more ornamental style that contrasted with the more traditional approach of some contemporaries. His engravings of different types of flowers served as references for French tapestry workshops, and greatly influenced interior design across Europe.
Monnoyer moved to England in 1678, where he continued to paint until his death. He is buried in St. James Church in London.