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

Editor: So, this etching by James Gillray, from around 1815 to 1820, is called "Progress of the Toilet: The Wig". It depicts a woman in her dressing room getting her wig styled, and there's this immediate sense of...satire. What do you make of it? Curator: This print speaks volumes about the social politics surrounding fashion and appearance in the Regency era. Gillray often used his art to critique the excesses and artificiality of the wealthy. The wig itself, consider its historical significance. It represents a certain social standing, and a departure from natural beauty ideals. Editor: So, the wig is more than just a wig, it's a symbol? Curator: Exactly! And consider the title "Progress of the Toilet". Gillray highlights the ritualistic, performative nature of getting ready. It wasn't merely about hygiene, but constructing a public persona. This print serves as a mirror, reflecting the societal pressures women faced and the tools they employed to navigate the complex social landscape. Notice the setting too, it seems very cramped and staged, don't you agree? Editor: Definitely! It feels almost claustrophobic despite the apparent luxury. Was Gillray perhaps commenting on the lack of authenticity or freedom in the lives of these women? Curator: Precisely. His caricatures weren't just humorous; they were potent social commentaries. They questioned the institutions and customs that shaped individual behavior. The wig becomes emblematic of all the trappings and constraints of fashionable society. Editor: That makes me see this in a totally new way. I initially thought it was just a funny scene, but it’s much more loaded. Thanks for sharing your insight! Curator: My pleasure! Thinking about art in its historical context really does deepen our understanding and appreciation.