Isabella Catanea Parasole

Isabella Catanea Parasole was a late sixteenth-century artist active around 1597, specializing in published works. Her documented output in major institutional collections includes representation across fifteen distinct books.

Parasole’s reputation rests primarily on her work as a printmaker and designer of pattern books. The most significant volume represented in art historical databases is Studio delle virtuose Dame. This work, which provides detailed visual instructions likely for embroidery or lace design, is documented through specific folio entries, including Studio delle virtuose Dame, page 11 (recto) and Studio delle virtuose Dame, page 12 (recto).

These historical works confirm her place among the early modern European printmakers contributing to decorative arts and design. Institutional trust in the quality and importance of her work is demonstrated by her inclusion in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Due to the historical age of her documented activity, many of the images from Isabella Catanea Parasole prints are available in the public domain, offering access to high-quality prints for study and preservation.