In the booklet, 'Highlights, The Wallace Collection' published by The Trustees of the Wallace Collection, 2003 the painting is interpreted thus:
"Dutch paintings of the 17th century often had a moral. In this small picture, the little lacemaker serves as an example of good behaviour for a Dutch housewife of the time. The mussels lying at her feet are a symbol of her virtue as both stay in their shell. Her discarded shoes suggest she cannot leave the house without them and so avoids temptation. The broom beside her emphasises her spotless house. On her richly embroidered cap is an emblem of doves and clasped hands that tell us she is a loving wife. Lace-making was also a sign of the virtuous housewife, since it was a long, laborious process allowing the maker little freedom from domesticity." ! I hope the Wallace Collection will forgive such a long quote but I felt I must defend the little lacemaker and advertise a wonderful Art Gallery in London. They also have Frans Hals, The Laughing Cavalier, with his wonderful needlepoint cuffs and collar. Jean Eke in Sussex , England, on a chilly , wet & windy late evening. - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
