Gallerie des Modes et Costumes Français, 1776, A 5 : La Phrigienn (...) 1776

This print, made in France in 1776, showcases the elaborate hairstyles of the era, offering us a glimpse into the visual codes of aristocratic culture. Each of the four hairstyles is given a name loaded with cultural and historical associations. The print is called “Gallerie des Modes et Costumes Français,” a title that suggests the institutional role of art in documenting and shaping social trends. France in the 1770s was a society defined by its rigid class structure, where fashion served as a powerful marker of status. The pursuit of luxury and elaborate display in clothing and hair was a symbol of wealth and power. By examining fashion plates like this alongside other period documents such as letters, diaries, and financial records, the historian can better understand the complex relationships between art, culture, and society.