registered as wallpaper and textile; 27 February 1896; block-printed at Merton Abbey from wallpaper blocks; repeat53-¼ x 26½ in. (136 67.5 cm.) W.27 in.(68.5 cm.); patterns 502, 685; working drawing and blocks (34) Walthamstow; Designed for Compton Hall, Wolverhampton.

Compton, 1896

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William Morris is credited with developing the most innovative design style of the nineteenth century, often referred to as British Arts and Crafts. Using soft-toned natural dyes, hand block-printing processes and a distinctive design aesthetic; he created fabrics and wallpapers that were immediately recognizable and immensely popular. Morris's designs generally depict flowers of the English countryside, interpreted in a simplified, two-dimensional aspect that retains the essential character of the particular plant without including excess detail.

John Henry Dearle joined Morris & Co. in 1878. His varied roles within the company included glass painting, tapestry weaving, and fabric design, and by 1890 he achieved the status of lead designer. He assumed the position of Art Director upon Morris's death in 1896 and managed the company's textile works until his death in 1932. Compton, one of Dearle's best-known patterns, was designed for Compton Hall, Wolverhampton, England.

Details
Title
Compton
Artist Life
1860 - 1932
Role
Designer
Accession Number
88.49
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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registered as wallpaper and textile; 27 February 1896; block-printed at Merton Abbey from wallpaper blocks; repeat53-¼ x 26½ in. (136 67.5 cm.) W.27 in.(68.5 cm.); patterns 502, 685; working drawing and blocks (34) Walthamstow; Designed for Compton Hall, Wolverhampton.