Early Life and Career

John Everett Millais, a prominent figure in the art world, was born on June 8, 1829, in Southampton, England. His prodigious talent led to his admission into the Royal Academy Schools at the age of eleven, making him the youngest student to ever enroll. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career.

Pre-Raphaelite Movement

Millais, along with Dante Gabriel Rossetti and William Holman Hunt, founded the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a revolutionary art movement that sought to challenge traditional Renaissance styles. His painting Christ in the House of His Parents (1849-1850), exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1850, sparked controversy with its realistic portrayal of a working-class Holy Family.

Notable Works and Style Evolution

* Ophelia (1851-1852) - A masterpiece showcasing Millais's attention to detail and naturalistic elements. * A Huguenot (1851-1852) - A poignant depiction of a young couple separated by religious conflicts, reflecting the artist's focus on beauty and complexity. * As Millais transitioned from the Pre-Raphaelite style, his later works, such as Peace Concluded, demonstrated a new form of realism, garnering immense success and making him one of the wealthiest artists of his time.

Legacy and Personal Life

Millais's personal life, including his marriage to Effie Gray (formerly married to John Ruskin), has been a subject of interest. His wife became a powerful promoter of his work, and together they secured commissions and expanded their social and intellectual circles. * Effie Millais - A strong supporter of her husband's artistic endeavors. * John Ruskin - The influential critic who initially supported Millais's early work but later became a subject of controversy due to his marriage to Effie.

Museums and Collections

* Tate Britain - Features an extensive collection of Millais's works, including Ophelia and A Huguenot. * WahooArt.com - Offers a comprehensive online platform to explore Millais's art, with detailed information on his life and notable paintings.

• Tate Britain: Sir John Everett Millais, Bt
• WahooArt.com: Explore Sir John Everett Millais's Art
• Wikipedia: John Everett Millais

Key Dates: * June 8, 1829 - Born in Southampton, England * 1840 - Admitted into the Royal Academy Schools at age eleven * 1850 - Exhibited Christ in the House of His Parents at the Royal Academy * August 13, 1896 - Passed away in London

Early Life and Career

Sir John Everett Millais, Bt, a renowned English painter and illustrator, was born on June 8, 1829, in Southampton, United Kingdom. As a child prodigy, he became the youngest student to enter the Royal Academy Schools at the age of eleven. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career, which would eventually lead to his election as President of the Royal Academy in 1896.

Founding Member of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood

Millais, along with Dante Gabriel Rossetti and William Holman Hunt, founded the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a group that reacted against the prevailing artistic ideals of the time. This avant-garde movement drew inspiration from earlier artists such as Jan van Eyck and Albrecht Dürer, who were believed to have drawn more directly from nature.

Notable Works

* Christ in the House of His Parents (1849-1850), Millais' early statement of PRB principles, was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1850. * Ophelia (1851-1852) and A Hugenot (1852) were received more positively, paving the way for Millais' election as an associate of the Royal Academy in 1853.

Legacy and Later Works

Millais' later works, such as Paix Conclue and The Brunswicker Black, showcased his growth as an artist. His election as President of the Royal Academy in 1896 solidified his reputation as a pioneer of Pre-Raphaelite art.

• The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood Art Movement on WahooArt.com
• Sir John Everett Millais, Bt on WahooArt.com
• Royal Academy of Arts, where Millais' work is featured in their collection.

Key Dates: * June 8, 1829: Born in Southampton, United Kingdom * 1840: Entered the Royal Academy Schools at the age of eleven * 1853: Elected as an associate of the Royal Academy * August 13, 1896: Passed away in London