Wig-making

Definition

Wig-making is the craft of creating wigs, typically from human or synthetic hair, designed to replicate natural hairstyles or create entirely new looks. In the context of specific historical styles, wig-making involves intricate techniques that reflect the fashion trends and social customs of the time, particularly during periods such as the Baroque and Rococo eras, where elaborate hairstyles were prominent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wig-making during the Baroque and Rococo periods emphasized grandeur, with wigs often adorned with ribbons, flowers, and even feathers to complement lavish clothing.
2. The techniques for wig-making included knotting hair strands onto a foundation cap, ensuring that the final product looked realistic and fit securely on the wearer's head.
3. Wigs served not only as a fashion statement but also as a means of indicating social status; longer and more ornate wigs were typically reserved for nobility and upper classes.
4. The use of white powder on wigs was common to achieve a fashionable look during these eras, often leading to the term 'powdered wigs' associated with this style.
5. Wig-makers, or 'perruquiers,' played a vital role in society, as their creations were essential for both theatrical performances and daily wear among the elite.

Review Questions

• How did wig-making techniques evolve during the Baroque and Rococo periods to meet the fashion demands of that time?
  • Wig-making techniques evolved significantly during the Baroque and Rococo periods, as artisans developed methods for crafting more intricate and larger wigs to satisfy the era's fashion demands. These changes included knotting hair strands onto specialized caps for stability and realism. The emphasis on volume and elaborate styling led to innovative approaches in securing adornments like ribbons and flowers, reflecting the opulence of these historical styles.
• Discuss the social implications of wig-wearing in the Baroque and Rococo periods and how it reflected class distinctions.
  • Wig-wearing in the Baroque and Rococo periods was laden with social implications, serving as a clear marker of class distinction. Nobility typically sported larger, more ornate wigs adorned with various accessories, signaling their wealth and status. In contrast, lower classes had simpler hairstyles or limited access to wigs altogether. This visual representation reinforced social hierarchies within society and emphasized the cultural importance of appearance during these eras.
• Evaluate the impact of wig-making on theatrical productions during the Baroque and Rococo periods and how it contributed to performance aesthetics.
  • Wig-making had a profound impact on theatrical productions during the Baroque and Rococo periods by enhancing character portrayal and performance aesthetics. The intricate designs and styles allowed actors to embody their roles more effectively, as wigs often reflected specific character traits or societal roles. The use of wigs contributed to a heightened sense of realism on stage, influencing audience perceptions while also aligning with the lavish visual culture characteristic of these historical times.

Related terms

Peruke: A type of wig worn in the 17th and 18th centuries, characterized by its long hair and often styled in elaborate curls, popular among men and women.

Frontlet: A hairpiece or partial wig worn at the front of the head to enhance the appearance of natural hair and add volume to elaborate hairstyles.

Tulle: A lightweight, fine netting fabric often used in wig-making to create structure, support, and decoration for wigs, particularly in the Baroque and Rococo styles.