Portrait of a Man 1660 - 1681

Willem van Mieris painted this portrait of a man with oil on panel in the late 17th or early 18th century. The elaborate wig worn by the sitter is more than mere fashion. It is a symbol of power and status, echoing the lion's mane, an ancient symbol of royalty and strength, seen in countless forms from classical sculptures to heraldic emblems. This transformation of animalistic power into human adornment speaks volumes. Consider how this symbol resurfaces across time. From the powdered wigs of European courts to the carefully constructed hairstyles of modern celebrities, humans have continually sought to augment their presence. Each adaptation carries the weight of its predecessors, reshaped by contemporary values. There is a profound psychological element at play. By donning these symbols, are we not attempting to tap into something primal, some deep-seated desire for recognition and authority? This portrait is more than just an image of a man; it is a mirror reflecting our own complex relationship with power.