Les Singuliers et Nouveaux Portraicts... page 20 (recto) 1588

This is page 20 from "Les Singuliers et Nouveaux Portraicts…", made by Federico de Vinciolo in the late 16th century. It’s an instruction manual, of sorts, demonstrating patterns for cutwork lace, or “point couppe”. Printed in black ink, the design stands out crisply against the white paper. Notice the intricate, repeating motifs, combining geometric shapes with stylized floral elements. These patterns were not just decorative; they were templates meant to be painstakingly replicated in fabric using scissors and needle. Cutwork was highly fashionable during the Renaissance, a mark of luxury and refinement. But its production relied on countless hours of skilled labor, often by women working in workshops or at home. This book gave makers access to design ideas, and also served to reinforce the social value placed on finely wrought, handmade goods. By preserving these patterns in print, de Vinciolo elevated a practical craft to the level of art. So, next time you see a piece of lace, remember the complex interplay of design, labor, and social status that it represents.