Description
Historically, white hair was considered a symbol of wisdom, and a full head of hair with a nice hairline was a sign of good breeding and health. Younger gentlemen powdered their naturally dark hair to a grayish tone similar to the color of this wig. Older gentlemen wore wigs powdered with scented flour sprinkled into pomades made from grease to cover their baldness.
Modern Colonial-style wigs are much easier to wear and maintain and less likely to attract bugs.