Introduction

In 1570, Flemish artist Joachim Beuckelaer produced a series of paintings illustrating the four elements – in those days, before the discovery of atoms, people believed that everything was made out of different mixtures of fire, air, water and earth.

The benefit for we historians is that – to symbolise his four subjects – he showed us ordinary 16th century women going about their business.

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Links:

The following websites will help you research further:

Women in the Early Modern era:

• History Learning Site