Silhouetportret van Annaeus Ypey 1824

Carl Cristiaan Fuchs made this silhouette portrait of Annaeus Ypey, likely in the early 19th century, using etching. Silhouettes were a popular and accessible form of portraiture, often favored by the middle class. This image, like many portraits, tells us about social status and cultural values. Ypey is depicted in profile, a format with a long history, particularly suited to the clean lines of silhouette. His powdered wig and formal attire reflect the fashion of the time, also symbolizing his social standing. The printmaking process itself is significant; printmaking allowed for wider distribution, democratizing image ownership to some extent. Understanding the art market, the role of portraiture, and the rise of middle-class patronage helps us interpret this work within its specific social and institutional context. To further understand this work, we can consult period fashion guides, social histories, and records of printmaking workshops. The meaning of this image isn't fixed; it shifts as we uncover more about the social forces shaping its creation and reception.