John Everett Millais (1829–1896) was a British painter and illustrator, celebrated as one of the founding members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a movement that sought to reject the conventional academic art of the time. Born in Southampton, England, Millais showed exceptional artistic talent from a young age. At just 11, he became the youngest student to ever enter the prestigious Royal Academy Schools.
Millais's early works, such as *Ophelia* (1851–52), exemplify the Pre-Raphaelite ethos with their meticulous attention to detail, vibrant colors, and symbolic depth. His paintings often explored themes from literature, religion, and nature, capturing the Victorian imagination.
Over time, Millais transitioned to a broader, more commercial style, producing evocative portraits, landscapes, and genre scenes. His later works, such as *The Boyhood of Raleigh* (1870), reveal his mastery of narrative and emotional resonance. Despite criticism for this stylistic shift, Millais achieved widespread acclaim, becoming the first artist of his era to be honored with a baronetcy in 1885.
Millais’s legacy lies in his ability to blend technical brilliance with emotional depth, bridging the gap between romantic idealism and realistic portrayal. His influence endures as a cornerstone of Victorian art and the Pre-Raphaelite movement.