Inspirational Puzzle

 

Dutch Painter Gabriel Metzue in 1629 created a painting of young woman winding lace bobbins. Entitled the portrait, The Lacemaker. This image shows a bit more than just the pillow work of making lace as many compositions show within the same time frame. She has the thread used in the bobbins on the near by table. A bentwood box behind with other supplies is behind the jug on that same table. 

The woman's clothing is very interesting, particularly the layering. Besides a shift/smock, is there a full length red kirtle as one under layer? The color is the same and goes from the skirt to the under partlet. The waistcoat over top with coordinating red trim could be a sleeved fitted kirtle as it laces in the front. If a waistcoat, it could be tucked in and red skirt worn overtop.

 It would not make much sense to wear two partlets on top of one another. Save maybe warmth or status. Observe between the opening on the white partlet, we definitely see red all the way to the neckline with similar linear decoration ask the skirt. Dark fitted cap is interesting change almost blends in with the background, as do the dark bobbins. There is texture all over in this composition. It makes me think mostly wool and linens. No shiny enough for silk, plus it would be above this woman's station to wear something that extravagant.  

Id like to replicate this but am considering all the layers first before attempting and will need to see some similar images from the same area to better determine any changing in layering past 1600.

I like a good puzzle,

 Marrin