The Tired Wigmaker, from "Divers Portraits" 1775

Giovanni David created this print, "The Tired Wigmaker," during the late 18th century. The image captures a moment of vulnerability, reflecting the social and economic realities of the working class in that era. The wigmaker's exhaustion speaks volumes about the physical and emotional toll of his labor. We can imagine the long hours, the repetitive motions, and the pressure to meet the demands of fashion. The wig itself, prominently displayed, becomes a symbol of the superficiality and relentless pace of trends. David develops an alternative narrative of the working class, diverging from traditional idealized representations. The French quote beneath the image which states that he changes spirit every day as does fashion further emphasizes this theme of the cost of keeping up with fashion. This print invites us to reflect on the human cost behind the artifice of appearances. It serves as a poignant reminder of the unseen labor that shapes our world.