Silhouet van een onbekende predikant, naar links kijkend 1763 - 1811

This silhouette portrait of an unknown clergyman, created between 1763 and 1811 by Dutch artist Simon Schaasberg, is a striking example of the popular art form of the 18th century. Schaasberg, born in 1753 and active until his death in 1811, specialized in silhouettes, capturing the essence of his subjects in black paper cutouts. The subject is depicted in profile, a common practice in silhouette portraits, emphasizing the shape of the face and hair, and the characteristic "cut-out" aesthetic of the genre. The silhouette is framed by an oval and rests on a label with the artist's signature, "Simon't Schoot bung," and details about the subject. Silhouettes, due to their affordability and simplicity, offered a way for people to commemorate their loved ones, even if they lacked the means for more elaborate portraits.