|
Between
1909 and 1910 Elisa Ricci, profound and refined scholar of the applied arts,
edited the reprinting of five pattern books from the 16th century. The books
are presented here, collected in one volume and
preceded by two articles by the same Elisa Ricci.
VINCIOLO - "I singolari e nuovi
disegni per lavori di biancheria" is a fairly
rare book, printed toward the end of the 16th century in 1587, which
had many reprints (the one used in this volume is dated 1606). It provides
designs for laces - beautiful designs which lend themselves
to many variations and for square mesh, that is for Network and Filet.
OSTAUS - "La vera perfectione del
disegno per punti e ricami" is an edition
from 1561. The patterns are for various kinds of embroideries but
also for jewelers, engravers, ornamental metal workers, weavers, and
interior decorators. Very tempting descriptions of the various parts
are written in the introduction by Elisa Ricci. Here is an example:
"the first six plates of foliage, to be executed in coloured silk,
gold and gems, as shown in paintings of the 15th and 16 centuries".
PAGANINO
- "Il Burato: libri de Ricami" is one of the oldest embroidery
pattern books. Without an exact date, it is thought to be no
older than 1527. Preceding the actual designs there are a few blank sheets
with grids for drawing out designs, which in the first part are for Counted
Threadwork, typical for Network. Other designs can be the inspiration for
various kinds of embroideries and laces.
VAVASSORE - "Opera nuova universale
intitolata Corona di Ricami" is without
an exact date but it is probably before 1530. Many plates have grids
for Counted Threadwork, others are for embroidery and various applications.
There are very interesting braided designs.
VAVASSORE - "Esemplario di lavori:
che insegna alle donne il modo e l'ordine di lavorare" came out,
according to Elisa Ricci, in 1530, as a
sequel to the first book by the popular demand of women. The designs,
particularly elegant, are for Counted Threadwork and also for Blackwork. |
