A Stitch in Time - Episode 2
5Van Eyck's enigmatic Arnolfini portrait has espoused any number of theories as to its meaning, making it one of the National Gallery's most recognisable works. Does the female subject's voluminous gown indicate that she was pregnant? Crafted from the finest quality broadcloth, every element of her sumptuous green robe speaks of the affluence of this 15th century merchant family. Amber Butchart journeys around the country to see the garment's fabric evolve from raw wool to the finest cloth, and discovers how wool was dyed in the 1400s, using natural ingredients from botanical and also bodily sources. At the National Gallery Amber uncovers some of the theories about the painting while Ninya Mikhaila and her team recreate this couture display of wealth.