Opera Nova Universali intitulata Corona di racammi, page 7 (recto) 1530

This is page seven of "Opera Nova Universali intitulata Corona di racammi," an engraving made by Giovanni Andrea Vavassore in Venice during the 16th century. The image presents two vertical bands of intricate designs. Pattern books like this one played a crucial role in the history of art and craft. Italy during this period experienced a flourishing textile industry. Venice, in particular, was known for its exquisite lace and embroidery. These books offered designs for artisans, enabling the production of luxury goods that were traded across Europe. The patterns here blend geometric precision with organic motifs, reflecting the cultural tastes of the time. Publications such as this helped to standardise tastes and skills across the region, and beyond. To fully understand the significance of this engraving, one might consult historical records of Venetian trade, guild archives, and surviving examples of Renaissance textiles, unpicking the tight relationship between commerce and artistry.