A 1909 facsimile, published in Bergamo as no. 2 in Elisa Ricci's series of antique pattern books, of Giovanni Ostaus's 1561 Venetian model book for embroidery and lace. After Ricci's introductory note, a list of known Ostaus editions and a bibliography, the book reproduces the original title, dedication, sonnets and address to readers. It then presents about 80 numbered plates of grid-based patterns for cutwork (punto tagliato), counted cross-stitch, darning on netting, applied work and foliage embroidery, plus alphabets, borders, and woodcut hunting and mythological scenes (Pyramus and Thisbe, Venus and Mars, Paris). The plates are charted on squares for counting threads. Ricci also suggests the later designs would serve goldsmiths, engravers and weavers.

Type

Book

Date

1561

Language

Italian

Pages

92

Archive notes

1909 facsimile. Scanned images provided by Tess Parrish