Trionfo Di Virtu. Libro Novo..., page 8 (recto) by Matteo Pagano

Trionfo Di Virtu. Libro Novo..., page 8 (recto)

Matteo Pagano · 1563

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“This 16th-century woodcut offers a window into the world of textile design, showcasing a detailed pattern intended for embroidery or lace, a testament to the era's appreciation for intricate handiwork.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This woodcut, "Trionfo Di Virtu. Libro Novo..., page 8 (recto)", offers a glimpse into the intricate world of 16th-century textile design. It presents a detailed pattern, likely intended for embroidery or lace, featuring a symmetrical arrangement of stylized floral motifs and curving tendrils. The delicate lines and precise rendering, characteristic of woodcut printing, allowed for the widespread dissemination of such designs, making them accessible to artisans and wealthy patrons alike. This page is part of a larger book, a "new book" as its title suggests, published in Venice in 1563, which would have served as a vital resource for those engaged in the domestic arts, reflecting the era's appreciation for skilled handiwork and decorative elegance. The design, with its repeating elements, speaks to the rhythm and patience required in the creation of textiles during this period.

DETAILS
Artist
Matteo Pagano
Date
1563
Medium
Woodcut
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
Overall: 9 13/16 x 7 7/8 in. (25 x 20 cm)
Collection
Drawings and Prints
Credit line
Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1937
LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Trionfo Di Virtu. Libro Novo..., page 8 (recto)
01

Observe the repeating floral elements, designed for continuous embroidery.

02

Notice the delicate, almost lace-like quality of the lines.

03

Look for the subtle variations in thickness, suggesting depth and texture.

04

See how the pattern fills the entire page, implying its use as a template.

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THE ARTIST

Matteo Pagano

Matteo Pagano, an Italian printmaker, created intricate woodcut designs for lace patterns and other decorative arts in 16th-century Venice.

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