Gemma pretiosa della virtuose donne, page 2 (recto) 1625

This page, created in 1625 by Italian artist Isabella Catanea Parasole, features intricate needlepoint patterns, known as "L'avoro a punto reticella" (reticella needlepoint) in Italian, from her publication "Gemma pretiosa della virtuose donne" (Precious Gem of Virtuous Women). Parasole, who lived from 1565 to 1625, was a renowned needlework artist and author, and her book provides a guide to various needlepoint stitches and designs, exemplified by this page. The precise lines and geometric motifs within the piece demonstrate the meticulous nature of this decorative art form.