The Story of Morris & Co.
Previously known as Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co., started in 1861 when it was a furnishings and decorative arts manufacturer and retailer founded by the artist and designer William Morris with friends from the Pre-Raphaelites. From 1875 till 1940 the brand’s successor Morris & Co was heavily inspired by medieval aesthetics and was known for its admiration of hand craftsmanship as well as traditional textile arts. Morris was producing repeated patterns for wallpaper as early as 1862, and later he designed his first pattern specifically for fabric printing. He chose to work with the ancient technique of hand woodblock printing which is a slow process but has the capability of producing highly artistic results which do not compare with other methods. One of William Morris' slogans was that art should be "by the people, for the people". Under his leadership, the company made a name for itself as a high-quality producer of such diverse items as stained glass, wallpaper, textiles, and furniture, often with a floral or foliage motif.
Morris & Co. had a huge influence on the decoration of houses and churches into the early 20th century. Today the firm’s famous designs are part of Sanderson Design Group where they continue to inspire and influence the world of interior design.
The medieval-inspired prints and patterns have a recognisable style that is unique to Morris & Co and simply cannot be replicated with the same quality and beauty. Its rich historic background makes it even more special and William Morris’ passion for art and his work can still be felt through the remarkable prints and patterns printed for interiors around the world today. Most of the popular and iconic designs come from old archives such as the famous Strawberry thief pattern and the countless compilations that have been put together to keep the artistic spirit of the originals alive.
Morris & Co's spectrum of designs is available throughout an array of goods and products such as wallpaper, rugs and fabrics for curtains, blinds, cushions and upholstery.
