Library Company of Philadelphia
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Welcome to the Library Company of Philadelphia's Tumblr page! Founded by Ben Franklin in 1731, we are an independent research library specializing in American history and culture from the 17th through the 19th centuries. This page highlights materials from LCP's extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, broadsides, ephemera, prints, photographs, and works of art.
People have always loved capturing their likeness, silhouettes were an affordable way to have a portrait made.
William
Birch visited Peale’s Museum to have this silhouette made. Philadelphians of
all means went to the art and natural history museum to have their profile cut
for one penny.
This silhouette is currently on display in our exhibition William Birch, Ingenious Artist: His Life, His Philadelphia Views, and his Legacy. For more information visit: http://librarycompany.org/birch2018/
William Birch, ca. 1805. Paper silhouette with embossed stamp from Peale’s Museum. Library Company of Philadelphia.