Embroidery Pattern with an Oblong Panel in its Center

Embroidery Pattern with an Oblong Panel in its Center is a sophisticated example of Renaissance ornamental design, executed by the master Albrecht Dürer between 1500 and 1521. As a woodcut, this work falls within the classification of fine art prints, demonstrating Dürer's versatility across media far beyond his famous paintings and engravings. This piece serves as a practical yet decorative model, likely intended to be used by textile artisans or embroiderers, providing precise guidance for complex stitching patterns.

The central feature of this design is a meticulously rendered oblong panel surrounded by intricate scrollwork and dense foliage motifs characteristic of Northern European decorative arts during the early 16th century. Dürer, based in Nuremberg, played a crucial role in the dissemination of high-quality printed patterns, which were essential guides for goldsmiths, glass painters, and those involved in creating luxurious textiles. Unlike narrative or religious scenes, these ornamental prints provided foundational source material for a wide range of applied arts, underscoring the profound influence of the artist on everyday luxury items across Europe.

While often overlooked compared to his larger prints like Melencolia I, works such as this Embroidery Pattern highlight Dürer's mastery of line and composition, even within the constraints of functional design templates. The precise execution typical of his style ensured that these valuable pattern woodcuts could be reproduced reliably for widespread commercial use. This particular impression is held within the esteemed permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, reflecting the institution's commitment to preserving historical prints and Renaissance ornamental arts. This important work, dating from the public domain era, continues to be studied as an example of early printmaking utilized for both artistic and industrial application.