Robyn Spencer

Robyn Spencer

1520s Italian Man’s Balzo and Berretto

This hat is inspired by ‘Portrait of a Man‘ by Moretto da Brescia, depicting a young noble man wearing a gold balzo and red wool berretto. This style of headwear was fashionable across Italy, Germany and Spain over the first…

1520s German Leberfarben Worsted Rock

‘Leberfarben’ means ‘liver-coloured’ – a pale version of this colour was common for low status garments in 16th century Germany. This is a lower class woman’s gown from the early 16th century, typically worn by a peasant or servant. I…

15th century Goldwork Henin

A mid 15th century henin, richly embroidered in gold, for a noble lady. I had not planned to make another henin so soon after the last one. The original plan for this gift was an embroidererd purse, but my research…

Woman wearing a short jacket top over a long sleeved woolen gown

1520s Blue Wool Vest Goller

This short vest-style Goller is suitable for a German middle class woman, and was fashionable through much of the 16th century. For such a small garment, it adds a lot of warmth! I first made this style many years ago…

Linen sack lying on the grass

Medieval Market Wallet

This practical sack was in use across Europe throughout the middle ages and renaissance. Slung over a shoulder or staff, lower classes could carry their shopping or working lunch, and travellers could easily carry a lot of gear. A simple…

1530s Pleated Halsgoller (partlet)

A pleated Goller (partlet) in very fine linen with an embroidered collar, suitable for an early 16th century noble German lady, or rich merchant’s wife. This project was one of those Learning Experiences… When I finally finished my green velvet…

Part of a black cap with flaps across the brow

1520s German Schlappe (hat)

This style of hat was worn by German men and women, particularly middle classes, during the early-mid 16th century, as an alternative to the Barett. It was worn over dressed hair or (for nobles) over a Haub. This style of…