Prima Parte de' Fiori, e Disegni di varie sorti di Ricami Moderni, page 2 (recto) 1591

This page from Giovanni Battista Ciotti's "Prima Parte de' Fiori, e Disegni di varie sorti di Ricami Moderni" (1591), features a dedication to Signora Gabriella Zeno Michele. The text is written in a formal, elegant script, typical of the Renaissance period, and is surrounded by a decorative border. This example of Italian Renaissance design illustrates the importance of patronage and the appreciation for artistry in the era. Ciotti's book, a comprehensive guide to embroidery and needlework, was highly sought after by Italian noblewomen seeking to master the art of embellishing fabrics. This specific page reveals Ciotti's talent for calligraphy and his understanding of the social context in which his work existed.