Studio delle virtuose Dame, page 7 (recto) 1597

This woodcut, "Studio delle virtuose Dame," is a page from a larger work by Isabella Catanea Parasole, a notable female artist of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The intricate design, featuring stylized floral motifs and intertwining snakes, exemplifies the artistic skill and creativity of this period. This particular page, from the book "Lavorio de Punto Inaria" (1597), showcases the intricate patterns that were popular for needlepoint and other forms of embroidery. The contrast between the black and white tones enhances the visual impact and complexity of the design, making it a fascinating example of the flourishing of artistic expression in 16th-century Italy.