The worker in tapestry, the decorative painter, the statuary, the goldsmith, took their models from him: all came from him, all flowed from his brain, all bore his imprint." The painter followed the king's ideas, being entirely after his own heart.

For fourteen years he worked for Louis XIV., representing his life and his conquests, at Versailles; painting for the Louvre the victories of Alexander, which were engraved almost immediately by Audran and Edelinck.

He was jealous of the royal favor, sensitive and haughty towards artists, honestly concerned for the king's glory and for the tasks confided to himself.
The growing reputation of Mignard, whom Louvois had brought back from Rome, troubled and disquieted Lebrun.

In vain did the king encourage him.

Lebrun, already ill, said in the presence of Louis XIV.