The artwork “Yes” by John Everett Millais, created in 1877, is an oil painting on canvas measuring 116.8 by 149.8 centimeters. A distinguished piece of the Realism movement, this genre painting is privately owned.
The artwork portrays a poignant and intimate moment between a monk and a young woman. The composition is notable for its meticulous attention to detail and the emotional depth conveyed by the subjects’ expressions and body language. In the center of the painting, the monk, clad in a brown robe, stands facing the young woman, who is dressed in a black dress adorned with a white collar and sleeves. Her delicate features are accentuated by a flower adorning her hair. They clasp hands, suggesting a significant emotional exchange or moment of silent communication. The background, subtle and unadorned, draws the viewer’s focus toward the figures, emphasizing the gravity of their interaction. The rich, warm hues and realistic depiction underscore Millais’ mastery in capturing the essence of human experience, characteristic of the Realism art movement.