William Morris’ Wallpapers
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Morris designs to be seen at Wightwick Manor include: Pimpernel Handprint wallpaper in the Billiard Room; Cray cotton; Honeysuckle I (available from www.HistoricStyle.com) in linen used as a wallcovering; and Wild Tulip wallpaper in the Dining Room.
Wild Tulip Wallpaper. This colourway matches the wallpaper in the Dining Room at Wightwick. Designed in 1884 by William Morris, the design was based on an Italian cut velvet acquired by the Victoria & Albert museum in 1883. Now available as a wallpaper in six colourways and a fabric in three colourways from www.HistoricStyle.com
William Morris, speaking at a lecture in 1882, said: ” Whatever you have in your rooms, think first of the walls; for they are that which makes your house and home; and if you don’t make some sacrifice in their favour, you will find that your chambers have a kind of makeshift lodging appearance about them, however rich and handsome your movables may be.”
“Vine” wallpaper designed by William Morris in 1873 and now available in four colourways from: www.HistoricStyle.com
Morris wallpapers, though designed in England, were historically exported, and used around the world. There are extensive collections in Australia, Canada, and the United States. Today, one of the largest markets for Morris designs is in Japan.
After seeing real Morris interiors – or even photographs of them – one can understand why Morris’ designs have been in continuous production for over 130 years, which speaks to their enduring appeal. His designs were at the forefront of the development of the Arts & Crafts movement in England, and are just as appropriate for today’s restoration or construction of Arts & Crafts style homes in North America.
Historic Style is an online retailer of historic wallpapers and fabrics specializing in William Morris designs. They offer more William Morris designs for sale in one place than anyone else. You can see more than 120 Morris wallpapers and 100 Morris fabrics at one time in their comprehensive online catalogue.
Click here to see the online catalogue of Morris’ Wallpapers and Fabrics.
Further Reading – Two of many superb books available:
