Spechio di pensieri delle belle et Virtudiose donne, page 11 (verso) 1546

This page from Matteo Pagano's "Spechio di pensieri delle belle et Virtudiose donne," a book of needlepoint patterns, dates back to 1546. The intricate design features a repeating motif of four stylized flowers within a grid, showcasing the meticulous detail typical of Italian Renaissance needlework. This page serves as a guide for women of the era to create beautiful and complex embroidery patterns, reflecting the high value placed on domestic arts in the period. This example, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, highlights the historical and artistic significance of needlework patterns and their enduring role in cultural expression.