The Somnambulist

Sir John Everett Millais' "The Somnambulist" is a haunting masterpiece that showcases the artist's evolution from Pre-Raphaelite precision to a more atmospheric style. Millais (1829-1896), a child prodigy who entered the Royal Academy Schools at just eleven years old, became a founding member of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood in 1848. His career was marked by early controversy and later critical acclaim, culminating in his election as President of the Royal Academy in 1896, shortly before his death. In "The Somnambulist," Millais captures a young woman in the eerie state of sleepwalking, likely inspired by Bellini's opera "La Sonnambula." Dressed in a flowing white nightgown, the figure stands precariously close to a cliff edge, her distant expression and the small brass candlestick in her hand suggesting a nocturnal wandering. The stark contrast between the brilliantly rendered white fabric and the murky surroundings creates a ghostly effect, emphasizing the subject's otherworldly state and the imminent danger she faces.

This painting reflects the Victorian fascination with psychological states and the supernatural, inviting viewers to contemplate the mysterious realm of the subconscious. Millais' mastery is evident in the exquisite detail of the fabric's folds and the subtle play of light on the sleepwalker's skin. "The Somnambulist" stands as a testament to Millais' artistic prowess, blending precise technique with emotive storytelling. It not only captures a moment of uncanny beauty but also explores the boundaries between consciousness and unconsciousness, reality and dream. Created when Millais was 41 and at the height of his powers, "The Somnambulist" received critical acclaim despite some initial reservations about its subject matter, with critics praising Millais' execution and the dramatic power of the scene.