Historic Americana
Early 19th-Century Artist Signed & Dated Cut Silhouette of Soldier with High Collar
1817, Hollow Cut Silhouette of Soldier wearing High Military Hat and Collar, Signed by Artist, Choice Very Fine.
This hollow-cut silhouette profile bust of a soldier features cardstock cut into the profile image, and framed under glass with a black fabric background. The silhouette is Signed “T. Hollis 1817” along the bottom portion of the cardstock. The image measures 3.75” x 2” (by sight), and is framed in a painted wood and gesso frame, 5.75” x 4.25”. The back of this framed silhouette has an aged, typed notation which reads:

“A very unusual silhouette of a soldier in high military hat with small plume and high military collar. Signed and dated T. Hollis 1817. There is no record of this early profilist. Bought in a New York Antique shop...”

Unfortunately, the artist does not appear on any listing from the early 19th century. Still, a very unusual find!