What is a full length portrait?

A full length portrait is an artwork showing the human subject entirely from head to toe. This format reveals posture, gesture and complete costume. Examples on this page include both oil paintings on canvas and delicate hand-cut paper silhouettes.

How were silhouettes made?

Silhouettes were produced by cutting paper with small scissors or knives to form the likeness of a subject. Artists sometimes added ink or watercolour highlights. Many fine examples were then mounted against contrasting backgrounds and placed within protective frames.

How should I hang these works?

These vertical compositions require adequate wall height to display the full figure properly. Placing them at eye level allows the viewer to appreciate the details of the subject's stance. Keep them away from direct sunlight to protect painted surfaces and delicate paper silhouettes from fading.

How do I identify the period?

Dating relies on the style of clothing, hair and framing materials used in the piece. Regency, Victorian and eighteenth-century works each display distinct aesthetic conventions. Signatures, inscriptions on the reverse and framing techniques also offer clues to the date of creation.