Progress of the Toilet: The Wig c. 1815 - 1820

"Progress of the Toilet: The Wig" (c. 1815-1820) is a satirical hand-colored etching by British artist James Gillray. The print depicts a woman having her wig adjusted by a maid, showcasing the meticulous and often humorous rituals of 19th-century fashion. The scene is filled with details, including a vanity mirror, a book of music, and a pet dog, further highlighting the frivolity and vanity associated with the wig-wearing culture of the time. This work, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into the social and fashion trends of early 19th-century England, highlighting Gillray's talent for witty social commentary.