Papinette

Papinette, a curious servant girl in sixteenth-century Antwerp, has no father but many mothers, because all the other servants boss her around. Kristien Dieltiens interweaves the moving, yet disturbing story of Papinette with the history of Antwerp and the rich artistic tradition that has developed in this Flemish city.

Both Papinette and her mother pose for sixteenth-century paintings that exist in the real world. The art of cooking, as well as female sensuality, are handed down from mother to daughter and the novel is most informative about the ingredients, dishes and culinary secrets of the past. At the same time, the powerlessness of poor, single women also remains a constant fact that is passed on from one generation to the next – the female servants are desired, but just as easily forgotten when younger, wealthier or more respectable women become available. This is a richly documented novel, but because of its candid and sensual style you never get the impression of being taught a history lesson.