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Men trying on wigs, 1800-1805. Creator: Jacob Smies
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Men trying on wigs, 1800-1805. Creator: Jacob Smies
Men trying on wigs, 1800-1805. A frenologist is looking for the right wig at a wig maker's shop. A large group of so-called scientists watches. On the table is a treatise by the German frenologist Franz Joseph Gall. Wigs on the shelf behind are labelled: Royal, Magistratical, Juridical, Pastoral, Medicinal, Chirurgical
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Media ID 36340049
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1st Duke Of Wellington Arthur Wellesley Arthur Wellesley 1st Duke Of Wellington Douro Marquess Of Duke Of Wellington Fashionable Fitting Funny Iron Duke Lord Wellington Marquess Of Douro Monocle Occupations Phrenology Professional Silly Sir Arthur Wellesley Status The Iron Duke Wellesley Arthur 1st Duke Of Wellington Wellington Duke Of Wigs Workwear Franz Josef Gall Franz Joseph Gall Jacob Smies Perriwig Pseudoscience Watercolour Paint
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Men Trying on Wigs: A Humorous Exploration of Phrenology and Fashion in the Early 19th Century This intriguing image, titled "Men Trying on Wigs" and created by the Dutch artist Jacob Smies between 1800 and 1805, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of phrenology and fashion during the early 19th century. At the center of the scene, a frenologist, a proponent of the pseudoscientific practice of phrenology, is intently examining a selection of wigs at a wig maker's shop. The frenologist's serious expression contrasts with the amused expressions of the large group of onlookers, who seem to find the entire scene absurd. The treatise by the German phrenologist Franz Joseph Gall, visible on the table, adds to the scientific air of the scene. Gall's theories, which held that the shape and size of the skull could be used to determine a person's character and abilities, were widely popular during this time. The wigs on the shelf behind, labeled with various occupations and titles, further emphasize the connection between head shape and identity. The man in the foreground, wearing a monocle and a coat adorned with the insignia of the Duke of Wellington, is believed to be a caricature of the famous British military leader, Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington. The duke's nickname, "The Iron Duke," adds to the humorous tone of the image, as does the satirical depiction of the elaborate wigs and the absurdity of the phrenological examination. Smies masterfully captures the essence of this transitional period in history, where pseudoscience and fashion intersected in a way that was both intriguing and absurd. This watercolor painting is a testament to the quirks and complexities of the past and offers a unique perspective on the world of phrenology and the fashionable world of the early 19th century.
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