Silhouettes: The “Snapshots” of the Regency Era

Photography began to develop (pun unintended) in the 1830s and 40s. Before that, likenesses were captured in other ways. This past Saturday, I attended an online class about one of the most popular methods. The class was called “Shades, Shadows, and Profiles: Silhouettes during the time of Jane Austen.” It was taught by Candice Hern, a well-known and respected Regency author and collector.

Candice gave a short history of silhouettes (known as “shades” or “profiles” during the Regency era), and the various techniques used to create them. She shared many examples, including several from her own collection. And, she also talked about some of the famous profile miniature artists.

Of course, having your portraited painted by a professional artist was another (and more colorful) option. But the multiple sittings were long and the expense far beyond what most (except the wealthy) could afford. Silhouettes, on the other hand, were a relatively quick, inexpensive alternative, and therefore accessible to far more people.

Lady’s Monthly Museum, 1799

In their most basic form, silhouettes required a person to sit before a light, while a second person traced their profile on paper and then cut it out with scissors. (There were also various contraptions to aid in this process.) Silhouette-making was a craft many amateurs enjoyed doing themselves, as shown in this brief excerpt from The Bride of Ivy Green:

“Oh, I would love to have my silhouette drawn,” Miss Bingley enthused. “Excellent idea, Justina.”

To prepare for the “shade party,” Justina and Rachel hung a large piece of white paper on the wall and set a chair before it, positioning a candle lamp nearby to cast the shadow of the subject’s silhouette onto the paper….

Candice Hern went on to describe other methods, like hollow-cut and painted silhouettes, in which fine details and embellishments were added by the artist later, after the subject’s profile was captured. These were sometimes made into jewelry, while others were framed to display.

I learned a lot from Candice Hern’s talk. (I always do!) I won’t try to summarize all she said here, but I refer you to her very informative WEBSITE, which, as a Regency author, I often visit myself. And if you ever have a chance to hear Candice speak, don’t miss it!

Do you possess any silhouettes, new or old?