Half-length silhouette of a young officer of the 103rd regiment 1825 - 1900

This silhouette of a young officer of the 103rd regiment, created by John Buncombe between 1825 and 1900, is a charming example of the popular art form of silhouette portraiture. The work, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts the officer in profile, emphasizing his military attire, including a distinctive hat with a plume and an elaborately decorated red coat. The silhouette's black and white form adds a sense of elegance and formality, common in such depictions of military personnel. The artist's use of bold outlines and sharp contrasts creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, making the portrait appear almost three-dimensional. This small-scale artwork is a testament to the enduring appeal of silhouette portraits, capturing the essence of a person in a simple and expressive manner.