“The Order of Release,” created by John Everett Millais between 1852 and 1853, is an oil painting on canvas that belongs to the Romanticism art movement. This genre painting, measuring 73.7 x 102.9 cm, is housed in the Tate Modern and Tate Britain in London, United Kingdom.
The artwork depicts an emotionally charged scene where a Highland soldier, who appears to be injured and exhausted, is released from imprisonment. He leans heavily on his wife, who holds their young child, while a loyal dog eagerly greets its master. The wife presents an official release document to a stern-looking prison guard dressed in a red military uniform, symbolizing the soldier’s liberation. The composition and use of light highlight the poignant reunion and the relief on the faces of the family members, capturing a moment of profound human emotion and resilience. The intricate detailing and realistic portrayal of the characters’ attires and expressions emphasize Millais’s mastery in capturing the essence of Romanticism.
