Title of Artwork: “Vanessa”
Artwork by John Everett Millais
Year Created 1868
Summary of Vanessa
At Sudley House in Liverpool, there is a John Everett Millais painting titled Vanessa (1868). Esther Vanhomrigh (1688-1723), a close friend and correspondent of Jonathan Swift’s who was known by the nickname Swift invented for her, is depicted in this elaborate portrait.
All About Vanessa
For the first time, Millais abandons the meticulous finish that was evident in Waking and Sleeping, which he exhibited in the previous year. This “almost violently modern” handling of paint has been compared to Diego Velázquez and Joshua Reynolds by Millais, who paints with dramatic, visible brush strokes in vibrant colours.
“Swift’s Vanessa” is a nickname given to Esther Vanhomrigh by Swift when he published their correspondence. This is a fictitious representation of the subject. Esther Vanhomrigh’s actual appearance is unknown, but she was referred to as “not to be a beauty” by some. A letter in her hands suggests it was either written to or received from Swift. Swift’s affair with another woman, Esther Johnson, whom he called “Stella” and whom he may have secretly married, ended their relationship, as evidenced by her sad expression. Vanessa succumbed to her injuries not long after. Stella was also depicted in a painting by Millais.
The revival of interest in the brushwork of Reynolds and Gainsborough in the late 18th century is reflected in this painting, which dates from that period.
Information Citations
En.wikipedia.org, https://en.wikipedia.org/.
