Lucidario di Recami, page 14 (recto) 1564

This is page 14 from Iseppo Foresto's "Lucidario di Recami," made around the mid-16th century in Italy. It’s an etching, meaning the image was incised into a metal plate, inked, and then printed onto paper. The design showcases patterns for needlework, a popular pastime, and a real economic activity for women of the Renaissance. Note the intricate, flowing botanical motifs. The crisp lines were achieved by carefully drawing into a prepared ground on the metal plate, then bathing it in acid to create the recessed lines that hold the ink. The printmaking process allowed for the widespread dissemination of these designs. It also reminds us that even seemingly decorative arts are rooted in specific techniques and labor. Foresto's prints democratized access to elaborate patterns, allowing more people to engage with and elevate the craft of needlework. By considering the materials, the labor involved, and the social context, we can fully appreciate the richness and cultural importance of these kinds of images.