Silhouet van Willem Emmery de Perponcher-Sedlwitzky 1788 - 1849

Casparis Haanen created this silhouette of Willem Emmery de Perponcher-Sedlwitzky. The practice of creating silhouettes was a popular and affordable alternative to painted portraits, particularly among the middle class. Silhouettes, like this one, offer insights into the social and cultural values of the time. Consider the subject's profile: the carefully styled hair, high collar, and formal attire all speak to a desire for respectability and adherence to social norms. In the Netherlands, during the 18th and 19th centuries, class distinctions were increasingly visible, and portraiture became a means for individuals to assert their social standing. This silhouette is a product of its time, reflecting the values and aspirations of Dutch society. Historians use a variety of resources, such as letters, diaries, and other historical documents to better understand the subject. The meaning we attribute to such artworks is deeply entwined with its social and institutional context.