William Morris

‘Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.’
William Morris

One of the 19th century's most famous names, William Morris is still renowned today as the designer of patterns such as 'Willow Bough' and 'Strawberry Thief'. But his wallpapers and textiles are only part of the story. Through developing many other products and working on interiors schemes (including one for the V&A's own café), Morris also mastered many other areas of design – as well as finding time to be a social activist and celebrated author.

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The V&A's hugely varied Morris collection reflects the impressive range of one of Britain's most prolific designers. There is a strong focus on Morris's celebrated designs for wallpapers and printed textiles, but other areas of his (and his collaborators') practice are also well represented, including tiles, stained glass, floor coverings, embroidery and furniture. Our collections also feature examples of Morris's publishing design for Kelmscott Press, as well as a number of his illustrated manuscripts.

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Background image: Acanthus wallpaper, designed by William Morris, manufactured by Jeffrey & Co., 1875, England. Museum no. E.800-1915. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London