My First Sermon 1863

Sir John Everett Millais captured this intimate scene with oils on canvas. The child's attire, particularly the bright red cloak, immediately evokes a sense of historical regalia. Consider how red, across cultures, symbolizes both divinity and power, reappearing in portraits of saints and royalty alike. Millais plays on this duality, dressing the child in a manner that suggests innocence, yet also hinting at an awareness of societal roles. The weighty book beside her may appear as an object of obligation, not unlike a scepter. Herein lies an emotional complexity – the child's weary expression juxtaposed with symbols of authority. The 'burden' of expectations is universal and timeless. Notice how Millais, through symbolism, captures a shared human experience. The motifs evolve, but the underlying psychological themes endure.