Strook naaldkant in Antwerp

Took me ages to find the translation for strook naaldkant - but could have guessed - it's raised needlepoint. At the Museum Mayer van den Bergh in Antwerp.
Love the narrative in this - a man and a woman out walking dogs.
!6th century Italian.

A linen press chez Rubens

 Linen a status symbol in 17th century Antwerp - this linen press in Rubens' house (now a museum). The linen press and linen cupboard therefore hugely important.
Pressed linen is still something of a luxury! Though the sheets at the hotel on the enormous bed are not linen they are so well pressed - and part of the pleasure of staying in a hotel.
This one really reasonable and conveniently close to the station.