The role of academic educational system was to produce an artist as a gentleman and intellectual as opposed to a craftsman who works with his hands. In order to produce grand history paintings, knowledge of history, literature and mythology was an essential requirement. Students were encouraged to study anatomy, geometry and perspective. They were taught the classical principles of composition: correct drawing, proportions, light and shade, simplicity, clarity, line, expression.

Hierarchical Structure

There was strict hierarchy in terms of ranking of academicians as well as in terms of the academic curriculum.