Silhouette art, a popular art form before photography, depicts subjects as solid shapes of a single color, usually black, against a lighter background, emphasizing the outline and creating a stark contrast. The term "silhouette" is derived from Étienne de Silhouette, a French finance minister, whose name became associated with cheap or simple portraits. 

Here's a more detailed look at silhouette art:

History and Origins:

Pre-Photography Popularity:

Before the widespread use of photography in the mid-19th century, silhouette portraiture was a common and affordable way to capture likenesses. 

Etienne de Silhouette:

The term "silhouette" originated from Étienne de Silhouette, a French finance minister known for his cost-cutting measures. The phrase "à la Silhouette" (meaning "on the cheap") became associated with these affordable portraits, and later, with any cheap or simple item. 

Early Examples:

Silhouettes can be traced back to ancient art forms like papercut art from China, Greco-Roman cameos, and shadow puppetry in ancient Asia. 

Golden Age:

The second half of the 18th century and the early 19th century are considered the golden age of silhouette art. 

Notable Artists:

Leading silhouette artists of this period included Francis Torond, A. Charles, John Miers, C. Rosenburg, Mrs. Brown, Auguste Edouart, T. Hamlet, and Mrs. Beetham (née Isabella Robinson). 

Techniques:

Profile Portraits:

Silhouettes typically depict subjects in profile, often cut from black paper and pasted onto a lighter background. 

Creating Silhouettes:

Artists would either paint or cut profiles, using paints or scissors, to create the silhouette. 

Modern Techniques:

Today, silhouettes can be created in various media, including digital art, photography, and even traditional methods like paper cutting. 

Characteristics:

Solid Shapes:

Silhouettes are characterized by solid shapes of a single color, usually black, with the edges matching the outline of the subject. 

Contrast:

The strong contrast between the dark silhouette and the light background is a key element of this art form.

Simplicity:

Silhouettes are known for their simplicity and ability to capture the essence of a subject with minimal detail. 

Mysterious Quality:

The lack of detail in a silhouette can create a mysterious or evocative effect.