Silhouette device

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Silhouette device

A safe and convenient machine to draw silhouettes, design by E Lorsay after Lavater. The subject sits on a seat, illuminated by a candle flame; the artist can then trace the shadow of their profile on to a piece of paper. Date: 1807

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 14126742

© Mary Evans Picture Library

1807 1810s Candle Copying Device Draw Illuminated Lavater Shadow Shadows Silhouettes Trace Tracing

EDITORS COMMENTS
This image showcases the intriguing Silhouette device, a design by E. Lorsay inspired by the pioneering work of Swiss artist Johann Christian Friedrich Hölderlin (Lavater). Dating back to 1807, this machine revolutionized the art of silhouette making, offering a safe and convenient method for creating intricate and accurate shadow portraits. The subject of this photograph, dressed in the fashion of the 1810s, sits comfortably on the device's seat, her profile illuminated by the gentle glow of a candle flame. The artist, positioned behind the subject, skillfully traces the delicate contours of her shadow onto a piece of paper, carefully capturing every detail. The Silhouette device was a significant advancement from the traditional method of cutting out paper profiles by hand. This ingenious invention allowed artists to create multiple copies of a single profile with remarkable accuracy and ease, making silhouette portraits an affordable and popular form of art during the 18th and 19th centuries. The allure of silhouette portraits lies in their simplicity and elegance, as they capture the essence of a person's likeness using only the most basic of tools – light and shadow. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of this art form, showcasing the Silhouette device in its prime, as it continues to inspire artists and captivate audiences with its unique charm and enduring appeal.

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