What is a framed silhouette painting?

A framed silhouette painting is a historical profile portrait rendered in ink, oil, or pigment on glass, paper, or plaster, displayed within a protective wall frame. These works date predominantly from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, serving as personal likenesses before photography became common.

How do I date a silhouette?

Dating relies on examining the costume of the sitter, the framing materials, and any inscriptions or labels on the reverse. Regency styles often feature specific bonnet shapes or high-waisted dresses, while Victorian pieces show different mounting techniques. Changes in glass clarity and backing papers also help establish the approximate period of creation.

Where should I hang these?

These miniature works suit small wall spaces, hallways, or grouped arrangements alongside other framed portraits and works on paper. They require protection from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the delicate pigments and paper grounds. Keeping them away from damp environments ensures the preservation of early wooden frames and glass panels.

How were reverse glass pieces made?

Reverse glass pieces required the artist to paint the portrait backwards on the rear side of the glass panel. This demanded precise brushwork because any initial error could not be painted over from the front. Once completed, the glass was reversed and framed, leaving the smooth surface to protect the paint layer.

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These framed silhouette painting examples capture profile likenesses in ink, glass and plaster, offering a glimpse into Georgian and Victorian likenesses.

Delightful Painted Silhouette of a Child Circa 1820

19th century

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Delightful Painted Silhouette of a Child Circa 1820

From Wigs on the Green

£250

FOR SALE

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Georgian Silhouette Portrait in Rosewood Frame

19th century

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Georgian Silhouette Portrait in Rosewood Frame

From Rams Head Antiques

£110

FOR SALE

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Victorian Miniature Watercolour Portrait 1852 Signed

19th century

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Victorian Miniature Watercolour Portrait 1852 Signed

From Antique Furniture Direct

£195

FOR SALE

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Painted Silhouette by John Smith of Edinburgh

18th century

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Painted Silhouette by John Smith of Edinburgh

From Wigs on the Green

£425

FOR SALE

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Framed Silhouette Painting

Delightful Painted Silhouette of a Child Circa 1820

Georgian Silhouette Portrait in Rosewood Frame

Victorian Miniature Watercolour Portrait 1852 Signed

Painted Silhouette by John Smith of Edinburgh

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