Anton Raphael Mengs (1728–1779) was a German painter who became one of the leading figures of Neoclassicism in the 18th century. Born in Aussig, Bohemia, Mengs was a child prodigy who received his early artistic training from his father, Ismael Mengs. He later moved to Rome, where he was deeply influenced by classical art and the works of Raphael. Mengs gained significant recognition for his portraits and religious paintings, and he was appointed court painter to King Frederick Augustus II of Saxony and later to King Charles III of Spain.

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Mengs' work is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail, harmonious compositions, and a focus on idealized beauty, aligning with the principles of Neoclassicism. He was also an influential art theorist; his written works, such as "Gedanken über die Schönheit und über den Geschmack in der Malerey" (Thoughts on Beauty and Taste in Painting), had a lasting impact on art criticism and theory.