Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Francisco de Mendieta y Retes 15th Century Millinery.

Hats like pastas, pastries, ship sails, snail shells, horns, and cathedrals. At least 40 different 15th century headdresses - a smorgasbord of millinery... I found in a book -  The Life and Times of Columbus. There too, in 1476, are Ferdinand and the Royal Guard of the Castile - painted in detail by Francisco de Mendieta y Retes, but the white draped and bundled millinery is what I keep studying... because of the variety. Perhaps each hat represents a particular location - or order. I can't find a thorough explanation for these millinery marvels, but feel the image is worthy of a look at least.

Too, see the baby - his wee face framed by a ruff.  
Francisco de Mendieta y Retes, the constitution of Biscay, 15th c. hennin/headdress.
Francisco de Mendieta y Retes, the constitution of Biscay, 15th c. hennin/headdress.