Silhouettes became popular as an inexpensive way to create a portrait. Today, antique silhouettes of famous figures sell for high prices. KOVELS.COM
Silhouettes and profile images date to ancient times. Usually limited to the head and shoulders, the shape is a filled solid color attached to a high-contrast background. Featureless, but easily recognizable, they offer fast identification.
Silhouettes were at their peak of popularity in the late 18th century as an inexpensive way to create a portrait miniature.
