Esemplario di lavori, page 11 (verso) 1529

Editor: This is "Esemplario di lavori, page 11 (verso)," a woodcut print made in 1529 by Nicolò Zoppino. It’s like a sampler of patterns, all in tight black and white. I find the rigid geometry quite calming; what do you see in it? Curator: Ah, calming, you say? I find it a bit of a fever dream, actually! All those tiny squares…but, yes, the overall effect is surprisingly ordered. It's Italian Renaissance, intended as a source book for lacemakers and embroiderers. Imagine someone painstakingly copying these patterns! The geometric precision contrasts beautifully with the little birds and stylized flowers, don't you think? Editor: It’s interesting how the birds and flowers are just as geometric as the other shapes. Were patterns like this popular back then? Curator: Hugely popular! Pattern books democratized design. Suddenly, you didn’t have to be a court artist to create something beautiful. You could pick up a woodcut like this, and boom – instant ornamentation. It's fascinating how art and craft intertwine. Makes you wonder about our obsession with "originality" today, doesn't it? Editor: So, it’s a practical tool that is also, in its own way, a work of art. I never thought of pattern books that way before! Thanks! Curator: Exactly! It makes you rethink how creativity can show up in unexpected forms and everyday items, wouldn't you agree?