Silhouetportret van J.W. Bussingh 1782 - 1816

Sophia Wilhelmina Evans created this silhouette portrait of J.W. Bussingh using pen in the late 18th or early 19th century. During this period, silhouette portraits were a popular and affordable way to capture a person's likeness, offering a contrasting alternative to painted portraits, which were more costly and time-consuming. Evans, as a woman artist, navigated a world where artistic recognition was often limited by gender. The text accompanying the image suggests a narrative of virtue and resilience. The sitter, Bussingh, is portrayed as someone who has been tested by a grim fate, yet remains brave, great, and aligned with God. This description could reflect the social values and expectations of the time, where moral strength and religious devotion were highly esteemed, particularly for men in positions of authority. Consider how Evans, through the medium of silhouette, captured not just an image, but an idea of identity. The emotional weight of the portrait lies in its stark simplicity, inviting us to contemplate the life and character of Bussingh.