[1] Like many wealthy young Britons of the era Grafton went on a Grand Tour across continental Europe, focused particularly on Italy due to its ancient history.

Grafton was painted in Rome in the uniform of the Suffolk Militia and carrying a spontoon over his shoulder.

Due to the continued illness of its leader William Pitt, 1st Earl of Chatham, he effectively served as its head for much of the time.

A major issue during his time in office was the Corsican Crisis triggered by the French invasion of the island.

[3] Batoni was a leading Italian portraitist who specialised in painting grand tourists, particularly British visitors.