Vijf vrouwenhoofden in verschillende standen, met fontange 1703

Bernard Picart made this print featuring five women with ‘fontange’ hairstyles in the 18th century. It’s fascinating how these towering hairstyles reflect cultural aspirations for status and identity. The fontange, with its height and elaborate construction, goes beyond mere fashion; it is a symbol of social hierarchy, connecting its wearer to courtly life. Think of it as a visual echo of ancient headdresses worn by royalty, projecting an aura of power. Throughout history, we see the re-emergence of such vertical elements in fashion, each time conveying a new form of prestige. These hairstyles can be interpreted through the lens of psychoanalysis as a form of collective expression, a societal reaching for an idealized image. The fontange serves as a potent visual metaphor for aspirations, anxieties, and the human desire for recognition. It reminds us that fashion is not just about attire, but about the silent narratives we weave through our appearance.