La Pratique de l'Aiguille, page 12 (recto) 1605

Matthias Mignerak made this woodcut, titled "La Pratique de l'Aiguille," sometime in the 16th or 17th century. The image shows the allegorical figure of Fire surrounded by flames and smoke, which can be interpreted in light of the social and cultural context of early modern Europe. Needlework books, pattern books, and manuals emerged in Europe around 1500, with Venice, Cologne, and Zurich as centers of production. These books provided instructions on how to create different patterns, stitches, and designs for embroidery, lace making, and other textile arts. They democratized access to design knowledge and skills. As the title suggests, "La Pratique de l'Aiguille," or "The Practice of the Needle," is one of these instructional guides. The grid-like pattern provides a kind of template. Art historians consider books like this to be crucial evidence of the transmission of art and culture. By studying these patterns and designs, we can better understand the artistic tastes, social customs, and cultural values of the time.