La Vera Perfettione del Disegno di varie sorti di recami, page 9 (verso) 1567

This page from Giovanni Ostaus's *La Vera Perfettione del Disegno di varie sorti di recami* (The True Perfection of the Design of Various Kinds of Embroideries), printed in 1567, features a grid of intricate embroidery patterns. Ostaus was a well-known designer and engraver who specialized in needlework designs. The image is an example of the detailed and refined patterns popular in 16th-century Italian embroidery. The grid layout makes the designs easy to follow and replicate, suggesting that the book was intended for a broad audience of needleworkers. The use of woodcut printing allows for the fine lines and subtle variations in shading that make the patterns so visually appealing. The work provides insight into the technical aspects of embroidery and the decorative tastes of the time.