Tapestries have been used for centuries to decorate and warm
homes. Most popular during the Elizabethan period, tapestries
enjoyed a revival during the 19th century, due in great part
to William Morris and his interest in tapestries for their tactile
qualities and the texture of the cloth itself. Historic Style
has chosen the best of William Morris’ tapestries, with
some other designs of his period as well. We also offer Tapestry
Cushions, and some Arts & Crafts designs.
You can click on the small images or on the names on the right
to see more details.
"The noblest of the weaving arts
is tapestry"
William Morris 1888
Always fascinated with tapestries, Morris set up his first
tapestry loom in 1877, and after experimenting, he started
weaving tapestries in 1879, using an upright loom. The
production of tapestries moved to Merton Abbey in 1881,
where all of the famous Morris & Company tapestries
were originally woven. Today, the tapestries are woven
by machine on traditional jacquard looms in France, Belgium
and the United States.
Please click on the images for an enlargement and information
on each tapestry.
Peacock
Orange Tree
The Woodpecker
Pomona
Flora
The Minstrel
Goddess of Spring
Angel
Floral & Tree
(Tree of Life II)
Asters & Acanthus
Cock Pheasant
Hen Pheasant
Armoury of the
Round Table Knights
Arming and Departure
of the Knights
Acanthus & Vine
The Lion
These tapestries take their design from medieval originals
charming in their simplicity. Morris would have based his
designs on such precedents.
Please click on the images for an enlargement and information
on each tapestry.
Leaping Bunny
Sitting Bunny
Squirrel
These large-scale textiles can be used as a wall hanging,
and are provided with a rod-pocket at the top, but the softer
chenille finish can also be used as a throw, or a table
cover. Unlined.
Please click on the images for an enlargement and information
on each tapestry.
Moorish Daisies
Rondel
The tapestry cushions are all adapted
from William Morris tapestries. The designs have been made
square, and backed with velvet in a coordinating colour.
Each cushion cover has a zipper.
They
are sold as cushion covers only, and require a 20" cushion
form.
Please click on the images for an enlargement and information
on each cushion.
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