John Everett Millais (1829–1896), a prominent English painter and founding member of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, played a pivotal role in shaping the Victorian art scene. Born on June 8, 1829, in Southampton, England, Millais displayed exceptional artistic talent from a young age and began his formal art education at the Royal Academy of Arts in London.

In 1848, Millais, along with Dante Gabriel Rossetti and William Holman Hunt, co-founded the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood—a movement that sought to reject the artificial conventions of academic art and return to the sincerity and detailed techniques of early Italian art.

Millais quickly gained recognition for his meticulous attention to detail and vivid use of colour. His early works, such as "Isabella" and "Christ in the House of His Parents," stirred controversy for their unconventional depictions of religious and literary subjects. Despite initial criticism, Millais's talent and innovation became widely acknowledged.

One of his most famous paintings, "Ophelia" (1851–1852), showcased his mastery of naturalistic detail and emotional depth. Millais often drew inspiration from literature, portraying scenes from Shakespeare and Tennyson with a Pre-Raphaelite sensibility.

In 1855, Millais achieved success by becoming the youngest-ever associate of the Royal Academy. Over the years, he continued to evolve as an artist, moving away from the strict Pre-Raphaelite style to embrace more mainstream approaches. His portrait of the young Princess Victoria, later Queen Victoria, further solidified his reputation.

Millais's later career saw him transition into a successful portrait painter, capturing the likenesses of prominent figures of the time. He was eventually elected as the President of the Royal Academy in 1896, a testament to his enduring impact on the British art establishment.

Beyond his achievements as a painter, Millais delved into book illustration, contributing to works by Charles Dickens and Anthony Trollope. He was also a founding member of the Artists' General Benevolent Institution, showcasing his commitment to supporting fellow artists in times of need.

John Everett Millais's influence extended beyond the art world. Knighted in 1885, he became Sir John Everett Millais, Baronet, marking his elevated status in Victorian society. His legacy endures not only through his individual works but also through his role in establishing the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood—a movement that left an indelible mark on the trajectory of British art. Millais passed away on August 13, 1896, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to captivate audiences and inspire discussions on the intersections of art, literature, and cultural identity.