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Matthias Mignerak, 1605
This is the elegant title page for Matthias Mignerak's 1605 book, "The Practice of the Needle," a pivotal work for 17th-century embroidery and lace design, showcasing the era's intricate artistry.
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This intricate engraving is the title page for Matthias Mignerak's seminal work, "La Pratique de l'Aiguille" (The Practice of the Needle), published in 1605. Mignerak, a French designer, is renowned for his contributions to the world of embroidery and lace design. This particular piece, measuring 9 1/4 x 7 1/16 inches, served as the introduction to a comprehensive guide for needlework, a craft that was both a practical skill and a highly valued art form in the 17th century. The book itself, as evidenced by numerous other pages from the same publication in the Met Museum's collection, featured an array of elaborate patterns and designs, often executed as woodcuts. This title page, however, is an engraving, suggesting a higher level of detail and artistry for the book's opening statement. It not only announced the content but also set the aesthetic tone for the exquisite craftsmanship contained within, reflecting Mignerak's mastery in translating complex designs into printable form for artisans.
The ornate border surrounding the central text
Detailed floral motifs and scrolling acanthus leaves
The precise lettering of the title
This is the elegant title page for Matthias Mignerak's 1605 book, "The Practice of the Needle," a pivotal work for 17th-century embroidery and lace design, sho…
Matthias Mignerak's 1605 pattern book 'La Pratique de l'Aiguille' put fine needlework into the hands of everyday embroiderers.
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