Portret van Michael Alberti 1710 - 1733

This is Martin Bernigeroth’s portrait of Michael Alberti, immortalized in ink at an unknown date, now residing at the Rijksmuseum. Note the elaborate wig that frames Alberti's face like a halo. It's not merely fashion; it's a symbol of status, wisdom, and intellectual prowess. Consider the wig's earlier incarnations: the majestic manes of lions, the flowing locks of pagan gods like Apollo, signs of virility and power. The modern wig echoes these ancient associations, adapted for a new era. Even today, the symbolism persists, though transformed. We see echoes of it in the carefully sculpted hairstyles of politicians, influencers, each consciously or subconsciously tapping into this reservoir of cultural memory. Observe how a seemingly simple detail carries the weight of history, constantly resurfacing, evolving, and reshaping our perceptions.