Jean François MilletFrench, 1814–1875The Old Mill
Can I see it?
Not on view at present
Where is “The Old Mill” now? Collection: Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago. Not on view at present. Checked October 12, 2026.
Chicago, United States
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
Details
- Accession number
- 1942.307
In the catalog
Sources
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Image: Art Institute of Chicago — CC0
In the life of Jean François Millet
The whole life1865
The first public showing of “The Angelus”
“The Angelus” was displayed to the public for the first time in 1865; it changed hands several times, increasing only modestly in value, since some considered the artist’s political sympathies suspect.
from 1865
Emile Gavet commissions pastels
In 1865 another patron, Emile Gavet, began commissioning pastels for a collection that eventually included 90 works.
1867
A major showing at the 1867 Exposition Universelle
In 1867 the Exposition Universelle hosted a major showing of his work, with “The Gleaners”, “The Angelus” and “Potato Planters” among the paintings exhibited.
1868
Hartmann commissions “Four Seasons” for 25,000 francs
In 1868 Frédéric Hartmann commissioned “Four Seasons” from him for 25,000 francs.
1870–1871
Fleeing the Franco-Prussian War to Normandy
In 1870 he and his family fled the Franco-Prussian War, moving to Cherbourg and Gréville, and did not return to Barbizon until late in 1871.
after 1871
Failing health prevents him from fulfilling state commissions
His last years were marked by financial success and increased official recognition, but he was unable to fulfil government commissions due to failing health.
