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
 
   
       
Traditional Home
   William Morris
        Acanthus &
         Vine
        Angel Tapestry
        Arming and Departure
         of the Knights
        Armoury of the
         Round Table Knights
        Asters &
        Acanthus
        Cock Pheasant
   Flora
   Floral & Tree
   Goddess of Spring
        Hen Pheasant
        Orange Tree
        Peacock
   Pomona
        The Lion
   The Minstrel
        The Woodpecker
   Medieval
        Leaping Bunny
        Sitting Bunny
        Squirrel
   Arts & Crafts
   Moorish Daisies
        Rondel
   Tapestry Cushions
        Orange Tree
        Pomona
        The Minstrel
        The Woodpecker

Back to Top

© All site content copyright Historic Style