They were originally from Montbrisson in the Loire region, and they were one of the most numerous French artistic dynasties, from the 16th century producing 14 painters over 6 generations. They were most prominent in the late 17th century and the 18th century. Joseph Parrocel (1646-1704) and his son Charles Parrocel (1688-1752) were notable painters of battles and hunts. Joseph's nephew Pierre Parrocel (1670-1739) was a prolific painter of religious works, as was his nephew and pupil Étienne Parrocel (1696-1775), who spent his working life in Rome.