Wigs all the rage, or a debate on the baldness of the times, Richard Newton, 1798

A man leans from a rostrum (right), holding up his wig, addressing an audience of men and women, seated and standing, most of whom hold up their wigs, disclosing bald or cropped heads. In his left hand is a wig of luxuriant curls which he has taken from the head of a protesting old woman. Most of the wigs simulate natural hair, either short or in ringlets. On the wall is a placard: 'for debate, \ opinions \ on \ baldness. \ it is the sincere wish of the \ proprietors of this institution, \ that gentlemen and ladies will be uncover'd on this important occasion'. See bmsat 9313. 24 may 1798 etching. Date: 1798. Dimensions: Height: 200 mm; Width: 243 mm. Medium: paper. Collection: British Museum. Wigs all the rage, or a debate on the baldness of the times (BM 1866,1114.645)