Framed Silhouettes of George and Martha Washington, circa 1790 – 1840 (SOLD)

Being offered is an early, framed pair of  profile silhouettes of George Washington and his wife Martha. They are both in their original matching frames measuring 6 ¾” x 5 ½”.  Silhouette (profile) portraiture was the popular way to recreate an image of oneself or loved one before the invention and common use of photography in the mid 1800’s. During the years of 1600s through 1850s, professional and amateur artists would either paint or cut profiles – using paints or scissors.

Etienne de Silhouette was a Finance Minister in France in the 18th century, and an amateur artist. He was also known for his inexpensive artwork. Because of his reputation, the reasonable profile portraits that he and others produced became known as "silhouettes".

The majority of period silhouettes were bust views – full body silhouettes are rarer because of the additional detail needed. These silhouettes came out of an old Pennsylvania estate sale. Silhouettes of presidents, Generals, actors, politicians, etc. were always the most popular and in demand. They are in very nice condition with no cracks in the glass and ready to hang.