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Bubbles
John Everett Millais, born 1829 - died 1896 - Enlarge image
Bubbles
- Object:
Print
- Place of origin:
United Kingdom (printed)
- Date:
ca. 1889 (made)
- Artist/Maker:
John Everett Millais, born 1829 - died 1896 (artist)
A. & F. Pears Ltd. (publisher) - Materials and Techniques:
Chromolithograph on paper
- Museum number:
E.2335-1889
- Gallery location:
Prints & Drawings Study Room, level C, case GG, shelf 36, box A
Thomas J. Barratt (1842-1914) of A. & F. Pears bought a painting by Sir John Everett Millais (1829–1896) of his grandson in 1886. He then reproduced it as a print, which became known as ‘Bubbles’. In this version, a bar of soap and the name of the company were added to the image. Such ‘artistic’ advertising appeared in the UK in the 1880s. It was initially characterised by the use of reproductions of works of art, and ‘Bubbles’ was perhaps the most famous example. T. J. Barratt was particularly keen to use the work of Royal Academicians, in order to add kudos and respectability to his product and so target middle-income customers.