Schon newes Modelbuch...Page 4(r) 1617

This is a page from "Schon newes Modelbuch," or "Beautiful New Pattern Book," created by Sigismundus Latomus around the 17th century. It's an engraving, meaning the design was cut into a metal plate, inked, and then printed onto paper. What's fascinating is how this bridges the gap between art and craft. These pattern books were crucial for artisans, particularly lacemakers and embroiderers. The imagery is of repeating geometric forms and floral motifs, and the act of engraving allowed for mass production and dissemination of designs. The patterns suggest the great amount of labor involved in textile production, and the skills that went into needlework and lace making at the time. Think of it as a very early form of digital design, where creativity could be distributed and endlessly replicated. It reminds us that "art" isn't just about unique masterpieces, but also about the everyday objects that enrich our lives, and the labor practices involved in their making.