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The Blind Girl, 1856. Creator: John Everett Millais
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The Blind Girl, 1856. Creator: John Everett Millais
The Blind Girl, 1856. The distant background of this painting shows the village of Winchelsea in Sussex, painted in the autumn of 1854. The two girls in the foreground and the middle ground were added later in Perth in 1855. The models were Matilda Proudfoot as the blind girl and Isabella Nichol as her younger sister. Millais had first used his wife Effie but then replaced her with Matilda. The scene deals with the contemporary social problem of homelessness, focusing on the predicament of children and the disabled
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The Blind Girl, 1856
EDITORS COMMENTS
by John Everett Millais captures a poignant moment in history, shedding light on the social issue of homelessness and the plight of vulnerable children and disabled individuals. Set against the backdrop of Winchelsea village in Sussex, this painting showcases Millais' artistic prowess and attention to detail. In the foreground, two girls stand side by side - one blind girl named Matilda Proudfoot and her younger sister Isabella Nichol. Their presence evokes a sense of innocence and vulnerability amidst their challenging circumstances. The artist initially intended to use his wife Effie as the blind girl but ultimately chose Matilda for greater authenticity. The painting's composition is rich with symbolism: a bird perched on a branch represents freedom, while butterflies fluttering nearby symbolize hope. The girls are dressed in humble clothing, their tattered cloaks reflecting their impoverished state. Millais masterfully depicts the bond between these sisters through an intimate embrace, emphasizing their reliance on each other during times of adversity. Their closed eyes convey both physical blindness and metaphorical blindness towards society's neglect. "The Blind Girl" serves as a reminder that compassion should extend to all members of society, especially those facing disabilities or homelessness. This timeless artwork continues to inspire viewers today with its powerful message and remarkable artistic style.
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