De Pruikemaaker (The Wigmaker) - Cornelis van der Sys

A detailed 1718 etching by Cornelis van der Sys depicting a wigmaker at work, part of the 'Menselyk Bedryf' series on human occupations.

This etching by Cornelis van der Sys originates from the series 'Menselyk Bedryf' (Human Occupations), published in 1718. The work depicts a wigmaker standing outside his shop, meticulously attending to a wig held in his hands. Beside him, two wig stands display finished products, while a dog rests on the pavement at his feet. In the background, a typical Dutch street scene unfolds, providing a glimpse into the urban environment of the early eighteenth century.

The print is accompanied by Dutch verses that offer a moralising commentary on the trade. The text reflects the period's interest in categorising social roles and human activities through both visual and literary means. Van der Sys employs a precise, linear technique characteristic of the era's printmaking, using cross-hatching to define the textures of the wigs, the clothing of the artisan, and the architectural elements of the surrounding buildings. The composition balances the foreground figure with the receding perspective of the street, creating a clear sense of space.

As a document of social history, the print captures the specific tools and presentation methods of the wigmaker, a profession that was essential to the fashion and social status of the time. The inclusion of the dog and the passersby adds a layer of everyday realism to the scene, moving beyond a simple trade advertisement to a broader observation of city life. The work remains a valuable record of the material culture and professional hierarchies of the Dutch Republic. Its clean lines and balanced composition make it an excellent example of the didactic print tradition, where art served to educate the public on the various crafts that sustained the economy and social order.