Opera Nova Universali intitulata Corona di racammi, page 7 (verso) 1530

This is page 7 from "Opera Nova Universali intitulata Corona di racammi," an Italian book printed around 1530 by Giovanni Andrea Vavassore, showcasing designs for needlework and lace. The page is dominated by two distinct rectangular patterns, both rendered in stark black ink against the off-white paper. To the left, a grid-like design emerges, creating intricate floral motifs through careful arrangements of positive and negative space. The rigid structure of the grid provides a framework for the organic forms, resulting in a compelling interplay between order and nature. Adjacent to this, on the right, a more curvilinear pattern unfolds, featuring a vine with leaves and grapes. The juxtaposition of these two patterns highlights the artist's exploration of contrasting design principles. The grid represents a rational, almost mathematical approach to design, while the vine introduces a sense of naturalism. The stark contrast between the structured grid and the flowing vine raises questions about the relationship between art, nature, and mathematical precision. The function of the design relies on the eye as it visually decodes the patterns.