siluettileikkaus

Siluettileikkaus, a Finnish term, translates to silhouette cutting. It is a traditional art form involving the creation of portraits or scenes by cutting out the dark profile of a subject, typically from black paper. The resulting silhouette is then usually mounted on a contrasting background, often white or a light color, to emphasize the outline.

Historically, silhouette portraits were a more affordable and accessible alternative to painted miniatures or formal oil portraits. They gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in Europe. The technique relies on careful observation of proportions and features to capture a recognizable likeness through a simple, two-dimensional form.

The process often involved an artist or practitioner tracing the shadow of a sitter's head and shoulders as they sat in profile against a light source. This outline was then meticulously transferred to paper and cut with sharp scissors or a specialized cutting tool. While often associated with portraits, siluettileikkaus could also be used to depict landscapes, animals, or intricate patterns.

Today, siluettileikkaus is practiced as a craft and an art form, appreciated for its historical significance and its elegant simplicity. Contemporary artists may use the technique in various ways, sometimes incorporating color or more complex compositions, while others adhere to the traditional black-on-white aesthetic. It remains a charming and distinctive method of portraiture and artistic expression.