The Convalescent

Artist Sir John Everett Millais (Southampton, England, 1829 - 1896)

Associated Miss Alice Millais (London, England, born 1862)

Date1875

Mediumoil on canvas

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 76.8 cm, Width: 64 cm
Frame: Height: 105.6 cm, Width: 93.1 cm
Weight: 16 kg

AcquisitionAlexander Macdonald Bequest, 1901.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationOn Display - Gallery 18

Object numberABDAG004393

Keywords

About MeMillais was one of the original Pre-Raphaelites. However, he forsook the austerity and intensity of his early works and enjoyed a long career as a highly popular subject painter.

This picture was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1876. At this date, its subject would be regarded with greater poignancy than today. With no antibiotics to stave off complications, a childish attack of 'flu might prove grave. Convalescence was achieved by many hours spent in loving nursing care and overnight vigil. Here, the little girl's condition appears to be improving and the flowers in her listless hand may be seen to symbolise her recovery, but also to suggest the transience and fragility of all forms of life.

ADOPT AN ARTWORK. This artwork is available for Adoption. To find out more please email AAGMSupport-Us@aberdeencity.gov.uk
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There is a great sense of both hope and anguish in this superb painting by Millais. In pre-antibiotic days, we can see the longing and maybe fear on the girl’s face.

Exhibitions

Gallery 18 - People & Portraits