Created:
Movement:
1886
Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
key Notes:
Shakespearean Characterization, Pre-Raphaelite Detail
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Dimensions:
49 1/4 x 33 in. (125.1 x 83.8 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

Portia by Sir John Everett Millais

Portia, painted by Sir John Everett Millais in 1886, is an exemplary work of the artist's mature period, showcasing his mastery in the use of oil on canvas. Millais, a founding member of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, was renowned for his attention to detail and vibrant color palette, both of which are evident in this painting. The work depicts Portia, a character from Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," capturing her intelligence and strength, themes that resonate with the Victorian era's evolving views on women's roles. Millais's ability to convey complex psychological states through portraiture contributed significantly to the development of narrative painting in the 19th century. His influence extended beyond the Pre-Raphaelite movement, impacting subsequent generations of artists with his innovative techniques and thematic explorations. The painting remains a testament to Millais's skill in blending literary inspiration with visual art, enriching the cultural dialogue of his time.

Description of the work:

Portia by Sir John Everett Millais

Created in 1886, "Portia" by Sir John Everett Millais is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the artist's Pre-Raphaelite style, characterized by meticulous attention to detail and vibrant color. The artwork depicts Portia, a character from Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice," and is housed in the Tate Britain collection.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Portia