In this artwork, how is the History discussed?
Reynolds was not commissioned to paint Mai's portrait, and the work remained in his studio until his death in 1792.  It was auctioned by Greenwood's in April 1796, and acquired by the art dealer Michael Bryan for 100 guineas.  Bryan sold it to art collector Frederick Howard, 5th Earl of Carlisle, and it was displayed in the Reynolds Room at Castle Howard for 200 years.  It was not seen again at a public exhibition until it appeared at the Royal Academy in 1954.
Greenwood's Castle Howard Michael Bryan Royal Academy Frederick Howard, 5th Earl of Carlisle