Newes Modelbuch in Kupffer (Page 17r) 1604

This is a page of Johann Sibmacher’s “Newes Modelbuch in Kupffer,” a book of patterns printed in Germany around the turn of the 17th century. It was made using the intaglio printmaking technique known as engraving. Printed pattern books like this one played a key role in the history of textiles. This page presents two designs for lace and embroidery, both made up of repeating geometric motifs. The book was not necessarily aimed at the highest levels of society but rather at a growing class of literate artisans and middle-class women who wanted to keep up with fashion. These books are fascinating documents for social historians. They tell us about the values placed on skillful handwork and tasteful ornament in a rapidly changing society, and we can learn much about the structures of production, distribution, and consumption in early modern Europe by studying them. We might also use surviving examples of needlework to learn more about the circulation of images and techniques in early modern Europe.