Ornamento delle belle & virtuose donne, page 6 (recto) 1554

This is a page from "Ornamento delle belle & virtuose donne", a book of lace patterns printed in Venice by Matteo Pagano in the 16th century. During this time, books of patterns were essential tools for women crafting lace and embroidery, and these patterns were not merely decorative; they were signifiers of status, virtue, and femininity. Consider how this book was specifically targeted at "belle & virtuose donne" – beautiful and virtuous women. This highlights the societal expectations placed on women of the era, where their worth was often tied to their appearance and domestic skills. The intricate geometric designs were meant to be meticulously copied. The act of creating lace became a performance of femininity. It was a way for women to display their skill, patience, and adherence to societal norms, all while subtly expressing their creativity within a limited sphere.