Splendore delle virtuose giovani, page 9 (recto) 1564

Curator: At first glance, it strikes me as quite ornamental; dense, almost suffocating in its detail. Editor: Indeed. We are looking at a page, specifically page 9 recto, from "Splendore delle virtuose giovani," created in 1564 by Iseppo Foresto. The artwork resides at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Curator: Foresto crafted this design using the intaglio technique, primarily through engraving, judging by the crisp lines and repeating patterns. It makes you wonder, who was this for? Editor: Considering the book's title, roughly translating to "Splendor of Virtuous Young Women," this pattern book most likely provided templates or inspiration for needlework or other crafts. It highlights the era's view on artistic creation and female education. Curator: It’s all about the repetitive labor involved in reproducing such intricate motifs. Notice how the geometric grid anchors the more fluid floral and zoomorphic elements. These lines probably were carefully engraved one after another. What kind of labor did that entail? Who was making this and how did that inform his, or her practice? Editor: Those are essential points! Furthermore, pattern books such as these circulated widely in the 16th century, influencing not only amateur craftspeople, but also professional artists and designers, shaping artistic trends and tastes across social strata. They also speak of how certain symbols are read and adapted. For instance, note the half-human, half-bird creatures— winged human torsos atop decorative vases; do these symbols connote paganism or beauty ideals that the artist is addressing? Curator: Yes, thinking about the social history that impacts this is fascinating! I agree. Looking closely at the repetitive elements brings forward an insight into both artistry and labor Editor: I feel this work helps us understand the circulation of ideas, the education of women, and the ways in which visual culture played a part in shaping Renaissance society. Curator: Precisely. This "Splendore" really brings forward that these pages were designed to enable a type of creative reproduction and transmission. Thank you! Editor: You're most welcome!