Schön newes Modelbuch (Page 44r) 1608

This is a page from "Schön newes Modelbuch" by Sigismundus Latomus, made in the early 17th century using woodcut printmaking. This book of model designs gives us insight into the visual culture of the time. The image presents rows of intricate, repeating patterns. These designs were not simply aesthetic; they were functional tools for artisans and craftspeople. Produced in Germany, this pattern book reflects the burgeoning print culture that was starting to influence all sectors of society. Printed pattern books served as a crucial bridge between artistic invention and its widespread application in textiles, embroidery, and other decorative arts. It offered both visual inspiration and practical guidance to a growing class of artisans seeking to innovate within traditional forms. Understanding the social and economic roles of pattern books requires historians to consult a range of sources: guild records, inventories, and surviving textiles. This offers insight into the practical applications and cultural significance of these designs. Only by connecting the artwork to its broader institutional context can we fully appreciate its historical importance.