Silhouetportret van J. Ruys 1848 - 1862

This silhouette portrait of J. Ruys was created by Pieter (IV) Barbiers between 1848 and 1862, shortly before his death. It is now housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The work showcases Barbiers' mastery of the silhouette art form, which was popular in the 19th century. Silhouettes use the interplay of light and shadow to create a unique and striking representation of the subject, in this case, a profile of a man in formal attire. The simplicity of the black and white form allows the viewer to focus on the details of the subject's posture and features.