Sir Edward John Poynter was a leading member of the art establishment. Like Millais, he became President of the Royal Academy towards the end of his career. Poynter specialised in paintings of classical subjects, but was also a skilled portraitist. Both this and Millais’ painting 'A Jersey Lily' were displayed in 1878 at the Royal Academy, the most prestigious venue in nineteenth-century London. It is likely that many people would have drawn comparisons between these two portraits and judged Millais against Poynter accordingly. Poynter’s painting of Lillie in a relaxed pose is much more colourful and sumptuous. Poynter has created a highly sensuous portrait, combining Lillie’s natural beauty with rich fabrics and flowers. Lillie holds a yellow rose and white rose and it is their inclusion that tells us the possible meaning behind the picture.