One of my many failed careers was theatrical costume design. While my design skills may not have been noteworthy, I excelled at costume research, pouring through art history books for artworks made at the same time period as the setting of the play I was designing. I could have used a costume history book—textbooks with sketches of clothing from different eras were what most designers used as resources—but I always wanted to go to primary sources (or, at least, to pictures of primary sources).

At the Cathedral Museum in Ferrara, which I visited last month when I was in Italy, I discovered this carving of a grape harvest. I don’t specifically recall costuming any plays set in a northern Italian vineyard in 1225, but if I had, surely this exquisite artwork would have been the perfect primary source.

Originally from a series of sculptures around one of the cathedral doors, this relief was torn down during the hateful era of rampaging Baroque renovation. The artist, known only as the Master of the Months, truly created a masterpiece.

A costume designer dreams of these details. I especially love the man’s close-fitting cap with the outline of his ear and a fringe of hair peeking out the back. I wonder what he stored in the little bag over his shoulder?

And the elegant details of his tunic, knotted at his waist to keep clean during the impending grape-stomping.

His face could be from the classical era.

The veins on his hand, even the suggestion of tiny pot belly—surprising to see this level of naturalism in the early 13th century.

Also, so rare—so wonderful!—to see a secular and common person presented with respect.

Enjoy this closeup of the grape picker’s sturdy foot next to a—GAH! NOW YOU’RE JUST SHOWING OFF, MASTER OF THE MONTHS—minutely detailed wicker basket.

Mmmmmm…ripe grapes.

The specficity of the twine around the grapevines could serve as an agricultural instruction manual.

Looking back it’s obvious the real reason I was doing all that costume research was that I loved art history (and theater). These days, I think I’ve finally found a successful career path, and I’m lucky enough to be able to travel to study these delightful primary sources in person.

How I got to Ferrara: Train from Florence.

Where I slept: Honey Rooms Ferrara.  Price: €61 for a single.  Recommended: yes.