Ornamento delle belle & virtuose donne, page 11 (recto) 1554

This page from *Ornamento delle belle & virtuose donne* (1554) by Matteo Pagano features a woodcut design for needlework. The intricate pattern, made of small, geometric shapes, was intended to be copied by women using needlepoint or embroidery. As a manual for women, this book was a popular guide for both decorative and practical projects. The design is likely from a tablecloth, cushion cover, or a similarly decorative textile. The book features a variety of designs, and this example is a beautiful and intricate example of needlework patterns from the Renaissance.