A Regency Period Family Portrait Silhouette c.1820-35

Object Description

The good Regency period silhouette depicting a gentleman, lady and child, arranged within a finely observed domestic interior, executed in the traditional manner with cut and inked black profiles against a delicately hand-drawn washed pencil backdrop, the composition possessing a wonderful theatrical quality; the tiny child shown reaching upward with a posy of flowers whilst the gentleman retains his top hat and cane to a miniature side table and lightly sketched furnishings to wall-hung pictures behind, giving the work unusual depth and narrative beyond the more commonly encountered plain-ground silhouettes of the period, the whole surviving in its original ebonised and gilt slip glazed frame and surviving from early nineteenth century England.

Object History

Unknown.

Object Literature

The traditional method of creating silhouette portrait is to cut them from lightweight black cardboard, and mount them on a pale background. This was the work of specialist artists, often working out of booths at fairs or markets. There was a distinct impact impact of neoclassicism on silhouette art in the late eighteenth century and then when the Regency period arrived, a focus on fashion, ageing and identity. Then shortly afterwards in the 1830s and 40s, the silhouette became more of a portrait and conversation piece. The inclusion of furniture, room settings and props offered subtle insight into social standing and family identity, transforming these portraits into deeply personal records of domestic life. Such works were often commissioned to commemorate family groups, engagements or domestic milestones, and examples retaining complex interior settings are notably scarcer than simple bust-length profile studies.

An exceptionally atmospheric and decorative example of early nineteenth century English silhouette work, in a good large scale, rich in narrative charm and possessing the faded romance so sought after in authentic period interiors.

Object Condition

Condition is consistent with age and entirely in keeping with the romantic, untouched nature of the piece. There is foxing and age-toning throughout the paper along with a pronounced water stain visible to the lower mount area, plus minor rippling and timewear beneath the glass. The frame shows losses, rubbing and historic wear to the black painted finish and gilt beaded edge, all of which contribute positively to its authentic country house appearance. The reverse retains old backing boards and period construction details. The figures themselves are beautifully cut with excellent profile detail and retain a strong graphic presence against the mellow paper ground.

Object Details