Dedication page of Neu künstlich Modelbuch (page 2r) 1598

Editor: This is the dedication page of "Neu künstlich Modelbuch," or "New Artful Pattern Book," from 1598 by Bernhard Jobin. It’s a woodcut and typography print on paper. The dense text surrounded by an ornate border gives it a really formal feel, almost intimidating. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a fascinating artifact of the Renaissance and its evolving social structures. Model books like these weren’t just about patterns; they were deeply embedded in the burgeoning world of textile production and consumption. Consider, for instance, who this book was intended for. Editor: From the title, it seems targeted toward women, specifically for "model work," which I assume means needlework or lace making? Curator: Exactly. Now, think about the broader social context. The rise of printed pattern books coincides with the development of a market-driven economy, particularly within urban centers. It allowed for wider distribution of designs, democratizing access but also potentially changing the dynamics of skilled labor. How do you think this book might have shaped women's roles or their social standing at the time? Editor: Perhaps it allowed them to participate more readily in the economy through textiles? Yet, there might have been tension if printed patterns diminished the value of highly skilled, individually created designs? Curator: Precisely! These books are a potent mix, reflecting both opportunities and shifts in social hierarchies surrounding artisanal skills. Examining this object highlights how even seemingly simple designs are tied into economics and socio-cultural complexities. Editor: That is much more complex than just a simple book. Thanks, I’ve learned so much from looking at it through that lens!