Hearts are Trumps 

Sir John Everett Millais painted "Hearts are Trumps" at an unknown date with oil on canvas. It shows three young women playing cards, but this isn't just a scene of leisure. It’s a glimpse into the social rituals and expectations of Victorian England. The title itself, "Hearts are Trumps," suggests that love and relationships hold the highest value. The women's elaborate dresses and refined setting speak to their upper-class status, a world where social connections and strategic alliances were paramount. Millais, associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, often explored themes of beauty and morality. Here, the game of cards becomes a metaphor for the game of courtship and marriage. Were these women free to make their own decisions, or were they playing to rules laid down by their society? To understand this painting better, we can explore Victorian etiquette books, fashion trends, and even the history of card games. Through those resources, we can see how art reflects and shapes the social norms of its time.