Esemplario di Lauori..., page 10 (recto) 1532

This is page 10 from 'Esemplario di Lauori...', a book of lace patterns made in Venice by Giovanni Andrea Vavassore, probably sometime in the 1550s. These designs were not simply decorative. Lace was a luxury product, and pattern books like this one played a crucial role in standardizing and disseminating fashionable designs across Europe. Venice, as a major center of trade and textile production, was at the forefront of this industry. The geometric patterns here reflect the mathematical precision and technical skill required for lacemaking. The black and white contrast, typical of printed designs, highlights the intricate details that would be translated into delicate needlework. Consider the social implications: these patterns were used by women, often working within domestic settings, to create valuable commodities for wealthy patrons. The publication of such books speaks to the growing commercialization of art and the increasing importance of design in the marketplace. To fully appreciate the impact of this unassuming page, we might consult account books, inventories, and other historical documents that shed light on the production, consumption, and social value of lace in 16th-century Europe.