Capitano Marchese del Monti 1728 - 1731

Marcus Tuscher rendered this drawing of Capitano Marchese del Monti with pencil on blue paper. Observe the subject’s powdered wig. In the 18th century, this flamboyant hairstyle signified not only status but also an embrace of artifice. The wig echoes the elaborate headdresses of ancient Egypt, symbols of power and divinity, reminding us of the cyclical nature of symbols. These wigs, like masks, transformed the wearer, inviting them to play a role, to embody a persona of heightened importance. Consider how this performative aspect mirrors the theatricality of Baroque art, where grand gestures and dramatic expressions were paramount. It's a fascinating progression, from the pharaoh's headdress to the powdered wig, each iteration reflecting its era's psychological landscape and collective aspirations. This portrait captures a moment in this ever-unfolding drama of self-presentation.