In Italy Van Honthorst made his name with candlelit scenes; in England his popularity was based on his large portraits, showing the royal family as mythological heroes. When he came to The Hague to paint at court, the whole character of portraiture there changed. Van Honthorst borrowed considerably from Van Dyck: his elegant poses, exuberant colours. Yet his touch was clearly different. Van Dijck was at his best when painting rapidly, with a loose brush; Honthorst's touch was that of a quicker Van Miereveldt.