Schön newes Modelbuch (Page 35r) 1608

This is a page from "Schön newes Modelbuch," or "Beautiful new pattern book," printed in the 17th century by Sigismundus Latomus. These books were essentially instruction manuals, printed using woodcut techniques. Think about the labour involved in the production of this page. A design was carefully carved into a block of wood, which was then inked and pressed onto paper. Look closely, and you can see the texture of the cut wood, and how that influences the final print. The bold lines, the geometric patterns, the contrast between black and white - all of these visual qualities stem directly from the capabilities and limitations of woodcut. But this wasn't just an artistic process; it was also a commercial one. These pattern books were made in multiples, for practical use by embroiderers and other textile workers, who would have directly copied the designs for their own creations. By understanding the materials, the making, and the context, we can appreciate the significance of pattern books like this one. It collapses traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, and highlights the vital connection between design, production, and everyday life.