William Morris's Flowers

William Morris's Flowers

Bain Rowan, 2019

Overview

William Morris, a fervent advocate for handcrafted artistry in an era of mass production, left an indelible mark on the decorative arts. While his creative output spanned a diverse range of objects, it is his innovative designs for carpets, fabrics, and wallpapers that continue to captivate and influence. Approximately 600 designs are attributed to Morris, the vast majority drawing inspiration from the natural world, including trees, plants, and, most notably, flowers.

This book showcases a curated selection of Morris's floral designs, presenting both finished patterns and preliminary working drawings in pen and watercolor. It also features examples of his pearwood printing blocks used to create these intricate floral patterns. The book delves into the sources that fueled Morris's floral designs, including his own gardens at the Red House in Kent and Kelmscott Manor in Oxfordshire. It also explores 16th and 17th-century herbals, illuminated medieval manuscripts, late medieval and Renaissance tapestries, and decorated objects from the Islamic world that Morris studied at the South Kensington Museum (now the V&A).

Authored by Rowan Bain, curator at the William Morris Gallery in Walthamstow, north London, this volume offers insight into Morris's creative process and the historical context that shaped his work. With almost 100 color illustrations, the book serves as both an informative resource and a visual delight for those interested in the decorative arts, textile design, and the legacy of William Morris.

Who it's for

• Design enthusiasts seeking inspiration from historical patterns.
• Students of art history and the decorative arts.
• Individuals interested in the Arts and Crafts movement.
• Those who appreciate floral motifs and textile design.
• Readers looking for an accessible introduction to William Morris's work.

Key features

• Authored by Rowan Bain, a curator at the William Morris Gallery.
• Features almost 100 color illustrations of Morris's designs and inspirations.
• Includes both completed patterns and working drawings.
• Explores the diverse sources that influenced Morris's floral designs.
• Published by Thames & Hudson.
• Hardcover binding for durability.
• Consists of 144 pages.
• Published in 2019.
• Language: English.
• ISBN: 9780500480458.