The Pharisee and the Publican (The Parables of Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ) 1864

Sir John Everett Millais's "The Pharisee and the Publican" (1864) is a wood engraving that depicts a scene from the New Testament. The engraving shows a Pharisee, a religious leader known for his strict adherence to Jewish law, praying proudly in a temple while a Publican, a tax collector often considered sinful, stands in the background, humbling himself in prayer. The contrasting postures and expressions of the two figures highlight the parable's message about humility and faith. The artist's use of dramatic light and shadow further emphasizes the contrast between the two characters, showcasing Millais's skill in capturing religious narratives with visual power. This piece is a fine example of Pre-Raphaelite art, a movement that sought to revive the detail and realism of medieval art.