Schön newes Modelbuch (Page 74r) 1608

This is page 74r from the Schön newes Modelbuch, or 'Beautiful New Pattern Book', made in Germany by Sigismundus Latomus, sometime in the early 17th century. It's an engraving on paper, showing designs for textiles. These books were essentially instruction manuals which played a crucial role in the circulation of design ideas across Europe, and, increasingly, the world, in the early modern period. The designs were largely for embroidery and lacework, skills that were key to a woman's education. But it wasn't just for amateurs, as it was used by professional lacemakers and embroiderers who worked for wealthy patrons. The book reflects the hierarchies of the period, where fine needlework was a status symbol. Understanding pattern books like this one involves looking at the social history of design, the economics of the textile trade, and the changing role of women in society. We can find out more by looking into archival sources such as inventories, letters, and business records. Doing so would allow a better understanding of the social and institutional contexts of art.