I found a library book several years ago that contained some Elizabethan blackwork designs --a style of embroidery used in the time of Elizabeth I (first image below). I attempted to stitch one of the designs and still have not finished:)--one of those lifetime projects! (see second image) The effect of this embroidery is bold and delicate at the same time- yet fairly simple to stitch- which may be one reason why it was used as a popular clothing decoration in the Renaissance period.
According to Wikipedia, Blackwork embroidery is a counted thread technique using black thread(mostly)(the designs I found included color)-- usually stitched on even-weave fabric such as linen. It was used on shirts, chemises or smocks in England from the time of Henry VIII.
"Blackwork in silk on linen was the most common domestic embroidery for clothing (shirts, smocks, sleeves, ruffs, and capes) and for household items such as cushion covers throughout the reign of Elizabeth I"(Wikipedia, Blackwork article). Here is a link that gives more information and illustrations.
www.blackworkarchives.com
And another--
www.prettyimpressivestuff.com/blackwork.htm
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