William Morris's interests were wide-ranging: he was a poet, writer,
political and social activist, conservationist, and businessman, as well
as a brilliant and original designer and manufacturer. This book
explores the balance between Morris's various spheres of activity,
places his art in the context of its time, and examines his ongoing and
far-reaching legacy.
A pioneer of the Arts & Crafts Movement, William Morris (1834-1896) is
one of the most influential designers of all time. Morris turned the
tide of Victorian England against an increasingly industrialized
manufacturing process toward a rediscovered respect for the skill of the
maker. Morris's whole approach still resonates today, and his designs
are popular and much admired.
Published to mark the 125th anniversary of Morris's death, this book
includes contributions from a wide range of Morris experts, with
chapters on painting, church decoration and stained glass, interior
decoration, furniture, tiles and tableware, wallpaper, textiles,
calligraphy, and publishing. Additional materials include a
contextualized chronology of Morris's life and a list of public
collections around the world where examples of Morris's work may be seen
today. This study is a wide- ranging, fully illustrated exploration of a
great thinker and artist, and essential reading for anyone interested in
the history of design.
