Oh now that's very interesting, I've never seen a back like that before. Well, then again, I don't think I've seen many 16th century backs period. I'd guess that the dress was side lacing, which was done back then. My own ren faire dress is side lacing (also known as a fucking pain in the ass). The bodice is tight enough that there has to be lacing somewhere, the dress couldn't just fit over her head. So I'd guess the only place for it is on the sides.
Since the dress is from so early in the period, perhaps the pleating in the back is a remnant of 15th century styles? Especially because the woman isn't wearing it with any noticeable hoops. But that might be going a bit too far out on a limb.
Another totally random and probably wrong thought- Since the bodice is so tight, the pleating is obviously sewn into place. Perhaps the two outer lines are indicative of two fabric folds, and the center line is simply a closure? As in, the dress laced up the back, but it laced completely closed so the artist just didn't draw super minuscule little x's, instead opting for the more attractive and simple clean line. Then the edges on either side of the back closing were decorated with a fold of fabric each? Which would add a more unified, matching look because of the extra pleating on the back skirt. Does that make any sense at all?
I do love discussing the whys and wherefores of we-don't-really-know-100%-how-they-did-it clothing!
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Since the dress is from so early in the period, perhaps the pleating in the back is a remnant of 15th century styles? Especially because the woman isn't wearing it with any noticeable hoops. But that might be going a bit too far out on a limb.
Another totally random and probably wrong thought- Since the bodice is so tight, the pleating is obviously sewn into place. Perhaps the two outer lines are indicative of two fabric folds, and the center line is simply a closure? As in, the dress laced up the back, but it laced completely closed so the artist just didn't draw super minuscule little x's, instead opting for the more attractive and simple clean line. Then the edges on either side of the back closing were decorated with a fold of fabric each? Which would add a more unified, matching look because of the extra pleating on the back skirt. Does that make any sense at all?
I do love discussing the whys and wherefores of we-don't-really-know-100%-how-they-did-it clothing!
Me too!!!!