La vera perfettione del disegno di varie sorti di recami, page 3 (recto) 1557

This is page 3 from "La vera perfettione del disegno di varie sorti di recami," created around 1600 by Giovanni Ostaus, showcasing patterns for embroidery. Notice the prominent use of flora and fauna, particularly the birds, lions, and stylized foliage arranged within a grid. These motifs are not merely decorative; they are deeply rooted in cultural symbolism. Birds, for instance, often represent the soul or freedom, while lions signify courage and strength. These symbols connect to earlier traditions, such as ancient Roman mosaics, where similar motifs symbolized nature's bounty and protection. Consider how the image affects us. It's not just a pattern; it’s a repository of collective memory, evoking a sense of harmony and order. The grid structure, with its orderly lines, contrasts with the wild, untamed nature of the floral designs, presenting a tension that captures our attention. It’s a reminder that symbols are never static, they evolve, reappear, and take on new meanings across time.