Rarely seen artworks from Millais displayed in Scotland for first time

Part of a collection of 300 artworks and other belongings which have remained unseen for 30 years will go on a long-term loan to Perth Art Gallery.

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Arts and Culture

A collection of rarely seen artworks from the influential Victoria painter John Everett Millais and his wife Effie Gray will do on display in Scotland for the first time.

Part of a collection of 300 artworks and other belongings which have remained unseen for 30 years will go on a long-term loan to Perth Art Gallery.

Millais was one of the artists known as the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, with Ophelia (1851-52) being one of his most significant paintings.

The collection is being donated by Millais and Effie’s great-grandson, Sir Geoffroy Millais.

He said: “It feels fitting that this collection finds its home in Perth, where the story of my great-grandparents began.

“Sharing these personal treasures with the public is a way of keeping their legacy alive and offering new generations the chance to connect with their remarkable lives and work.”

The collection include work from when Millais was just seven years old and jewellery belonging to Gray, who was born in Perth.

Helen Smout, chief executive of Culture Perth and Kinross, said: “We are honoured to be the recipients of such an important and personal collection.

“This is not only a homecoming for Effie Gray, but a celebration of Millais’ enduring connection to Perthshire and a transformative moment for the cultural landscape of our region.”

The free public display opens on July 25.