In the foreground, the young woman is preparing a simple meal. She is pounding something in a mortar and pestle - presumably some pieces of the garlic that are scattered in front of her. The other ingredients on the table -fish, eggs, a jug for olive oil, and a red pepper - suggest that she is making 'alioli' - garlic mayonnaise - to go with the fish. At her shoulder, an older woman seems to be reminding her of her work. But is she scolding her or encouraging her?

The story of Martha and Mary would seem to promote the value of study and contemplation over menial work - Mary is effectively praised for not working. So what is Velázquez saying about this sullen young cook?

One reading often ascribed to the picture is that the older woman is reminding the grumpy young cook that her role in life is as valid and necessary as any other. A popular teaching by Saint Theresa maintained that 'The Lord walks even among the kitchen pots, helping you in matter spiritual and material'. This may have been Velázquez's intention, although it doesn't fit entirely comfortably with a story about the importance of study.

Perhaps the inset scene represents the girl's daydream - in which she identifies with Mary, and escapes the life that's given her such rough, work-reddened hands.

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