When one thinks of modern images of wealth, a lot of the imagery comes from social media. Pictures of men and women posing in front of pools, decorated homes, extravagant vacation spots all dawned in beautiful outfits while they stop to capture this singular moment for all to see.

Very much how Berger’s discusses the Oil painting in art history. Berger’s claims that oil painting was made as displays of wealth and status. The painted men & women decorated in frills and lace, bountiful fruits upon banquet tables , animals and acres of lush land all show heavy significance of the commissioners act of displaying their wealth throughout their home for other to see and note the amount of wealth the owner of the painting has. Wealth that can be recreated in oil paint and purchased as if they own everything with the painting making them seem richer.

Paintings and photos alike created to the intention to flash their wealth and experiences, except now its faster and cheaper than ever to bring the illusion of wealth and in social media that’s all that is needed. A phone with camera, and a how to look rich on Instagram tutorial. So serious look it up and you can find all you need to make yourself the next wealthy digital socialite. I don’t believe we are any different from the time when we commissioned oil painting to show off to our riches. I just feel like now you don’t actually have to be rich.

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