It was listed by Wigs on the Green. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.
Wigs on the Green has dated this Antique Dog Silhouette to the 19th Century.
Some years ago a salvaged scrapbook came to light in a Parisian bookshop and this is the source of this unique cutting of a shaggy-haired terrier as he ambles after his human.
The silhouette is presented in a period daguerreotype frame with a decorative gilt border and has a stamp of authenticity within. The frame shows some wear as would be expected.
Finding himself exiled in England with a wife and young family to support, Augustin Edouart opened a shop in Cheltenham selling French curios and artificial flowers but the venture was short-lived and a bankruptcy notice was published in May 1826. He had also tried his hand at creating pictures of animals and landscapes out of hair. These found favour with HRH Duchess of York who commissioned portraits of her beloved dogs. The work was, however, time-consuming and so not cost-effective. But all was not lost, as Edouart discovered he had an aptitude for cutting silhouettes and, third time lucky, this venture proved hugely successful. He spent the next fifteen years travelling around the British Isles cutting thousands of profiles including many authors, musicians, politicians and royalty before setting sail to the United States where again he found favour and success.
Provenance: The artist's Scrapbook
Wigs on the Green has dated this Antique Dog Silhouette to the 19th Century.
Small portraiture of character & historical interest
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Wigs on the Green Profile Page
Augustin Edouart Cut Silhouette of a Dog