La Pratique de l'Aiguille, page 56 (recto) 1605

Matthias Mignerak created this page from "La Pratique de l'Aiguille," sometime in the 17th century using woodcut and letterpress. Printed manuals like this one played a crucial role in shaping artistic and cultural practices, particularly in the realm of domestic crafts. This image is more than just a pattern for needlework; it's a window into the social fabric of its time. In 17th-century Europe, lace-making was not merely a pastime but a significant economic activity, often associated with women's labor and domestic production. Manuals like this one democratized access to design and technique, allowing individuals to participate in the creation of valuable goods. To understand the context of this image, we can look at guild records, economic histories, and studies of material culture. These resources help us to explore the relationship between art, labor, and social status. By examining this artwork through a socio-historical lens, we recognize that art's meaning is always contingent on its social and institutional context.