Othello and Desdemona

Sir John Everett Millais RA (Southampton 1829- London 1896). Oil painting on panel, Othello and Desdemona by Sir John Everett Millais (Southampton 1829- London 1896), circa 1843. An early oil sketch of the artist of Othello in red outfit holding hand to head, being clasped by Desdemona in wedding gown (?). To the left is a servant, against green background. On the back is a letter from Millais dated 17 June 1888: "Dear Sir The sketch of Othello and Desdemona is a very very early performance of yours truly J. Millais." Millais had a precocious talent: in 1840, aged eleven, he became the youngest-ever student at the Royal Academy Schools. His first known oil painting is of 1841. He won the silver medal for drawing from the antique (i.e. casts of classical sculpture) in 1843, exhibited his first major painting in 1846, and in 1847 won the gold medal for the painting Pizarro Seizing the Inca of Peru.The strong colour and histrionic gestures of the picture reflect Othello's insane jealousy. Wightwick Manor, West Midlands (Accredited Museum)