Les Secondes Oeuvres, et Subtiles Inventions De Lingerie du Seigneur Federic de Vinciolo Venitien, page 61 (recto) 1603

This page, from a book of lace patterns, was made in Venice by Federico de Vinciolo around 1595, using woodcut on paper. The material itself is simple, but the image speaks volumes about the complex industry of lace-making in the 16th century. Look closely, and you'll notice that the entire composition is set against a grid. This isn't just a decorative choice; it's a practical guide for lace-makers. Each square corresponds to a stitch, providing a blueprint for recreating the design with needle and thread. Lace was highly prized, adorning the garments of the wealthy. Pattern books like this one played a crucial role in disseminating designs and fueling the demand for these intricate textiles. The labor-intensive process of lace-making meant that it was often a source of income for women, yet their contributions are rarely acknowledged in the historical record. By focusing on the grid, we recognize the crucial labor that went into making luxury goods, and challenge the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft.