Frequently Asked Questions

What was William Morris most known for?

William Morris was most recognised in his lifetime for his contribution to Victorian poetry and is the author of many poetical works, the most famous of which are The Earthly Paradise and The Defence of Guinevere. He also wrote novels and made an ambitious translation of the Icelandic Sagas.

How did William Morris influence art?

William Morris believed people should be surrounded by beautiful, well-made things. This vision inspired the emergence of the Arts and Crafts movement in the 1860s.

Did William Morris have children?

In January 1861, William Morris and Janey's first daughter was born: named Jane Alice Morris, she was commonly known as 'Jenny'. Jenny was followed in March 1862 by the birth of their second daughter, Mary 'May' Morris.

Was William Morris Art Nouveau?

The Art Nouveau movement was also inspired by Celtic manuscripts and the drawings of William Blake. Persian pottery and ancient Roman glass also served as models for some Art Nouveau craftsmen. William Morris was the founder of the Art Nouveau Arts and Crafts Movement in England.

What is the philosophy of William Morris?

In Morris' view, every part of our home – from the floors and furnishings, to the walls and lighting - should be well-designed and well-made. Their integrity would counter what he saw as both the moral and aesthetic 'ugliness' of mass production.

What are some famous designs by William Morris?

It was in the 1870s that William Morris really mastered designing for wallpaper, a period during which he created many of his most enduring designs, such as 'Larkspur' (1872), 'Jasmine' (1872), 'Willow' (1874), 'Marigold' (1875), 'Wreath' and 'Chrysanthemum' (both 1876–87).

What inspired Morris design?

William Morris and Burne-Jones were deeply influenced by John Ruskin, art historian and philosopher, and his book The Stones of Venice (1853). In a chapter titled 'The Nature of Gothic' Ruskin rejected what he saw as the moral bankruptcy of Victorian art and society, and called for a return to the values of the medieval age.

What technique did William Morris use?

In 1883 William Morris used the complex indigo-discharge print method to produce a design that, although expensive, was still one of the company's most successful: 'Strawberry Thief'.

What was the name of the arts movement that was started by William Morris?

The Arts and Crafts Movement began in England in the 1860s as a reform movement. Its primary proponents were John Ruskin (1819-1900) and William Morris who is pictured at right (1834-1896).27 June 2022