Elisabeth Rijbergh: paper precision

Paper cutting is a special kind of paper art. Instead of drawing or painting, an image is created by carefully cutting or trimming away pieces of paper. What remains is a delicate play of lines, light, and shadow. It requires a steady hand, patience, and a strong sense of technique.

This art form was especially popular in the Netherlands during the 17th and 18th centuries. Both amateurs and professional artists created impressive works using nothing more than paper and a sharp blade, from elegant letters and floral designs to buildings and portraits. What began as a pastime for the wealthy gradually became more accessible as paper became cheaper. Still, the most refined pieces demanded great technical skill, and only a few artists truly mastered it. Among them were Johanna Koerten and Johannes van Achelom.

A surprising name in this group is Elisabeth Rijbergh (1672–1721), a paper artist from Rotterdam. Celebrated in her own time, she was largely forgotten after her death. From her studio, she created and sold intricate paper dioramas: multilayered scenes rich in detail, featuring gardens, landscapes, and portraits.