Although paper cutting has been an art form for centuries, this specialty takes its name from Etienne de Silhouette. During his term as French controller general under Louis XV in the 1760s, Minister de Silhouette popularized the profile cutout and was famous for tough fiscal measures. The standard silhouette depicts a side view of the face and shoulders of the sitter. The image could be a cutout pasted on a card or a watercolor on plaster or ivory. Lovers exchanged them, and likenesses of married couples were made to face each other.
Soldiers also provide another popular subject.
Better examples feature elaborate hairstyles or headgear with impressive detail. Biety adds that a good frame can enhance the value of a silhouette. Another key element in resale value is good looks. Less attractive sitters attract less attention and fewer buyers. Toward the end of the 18th century artists introduced silhouettes painted on glass.