Realism Abroad

Ford Madox Brown

The Last of England

1852–55

Oil on panel, 82.5 × 75 cm. Birmingham Museums Trust

A young couple stare grimly ahead as their ship leaves England, the woman holding a baby's hand under her shawl.

• The circular picture sits inside a painted gold border carrying its title.
• Emigration, a real choice facing many Victorians, painted as a modern drama.

Image: Birmingham Museums Trust · CC0