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

This is page two from "Gemma pretiosa della virtuose donne," or "Precious Gems of Virtuous Women," made by Isabella Catanea Parasole in the late 16th or early 17th century. This bookplate provides patterns for "Lavoro a Ponto Reticella," or Reticella lace, a geometric and highly-stylized needle lace popular at the time. Parasole was a printmaker and author, but also a professional lace maker and embroiderer. Through her pattern books, Parasole provided templates for women who practiced needlework, an art form that was admired, and a source of income. Note how Parasole's book is dedicated to virtuous women, but nonetheless provided designs for women to create their own businesses. Her book emphasizes the complex relationship between women, work, and virtue during the early modern period. Although decorative, lace also signified status and wealth, demonstrating the power of women’s labor in the economy. Consider how Parasole’s work challenges assumptions about gendered labor, while offering a glimpse into the domestic lives of women.