Acanthus

This is part of a hanging bed cover, Acanthus, a William Morris design, embroidered by his daughter May Morris and others around 1900-10. We went to the museum to William Morris in Walthamstow while visiting friends Al and Liz which was hosting a special exhibition on May Morris who has lived somewhat in the shadow of her illustrious father.

A superb exhibition it was too and what a talented arts and crafts person she was too. Not just embroidery but also jewellery, drawing and painting too.

Apart from the exhibition most of the rooms were devoted, of course, to William Morris who was born and lived in Walthamstow for many years. I was immediately inspired by his quotations, his ambitions to retain beauty in the face of mass production and his support for socialism in the 19C. I expect if you dig deeper into his life and work, this simplistic view would be challenged but nevertheless my initial impression of his work and values was I felt a connection with the man.

Al and Liz have lived in this part of the world for decades, always meant to go to the museum, but this was the first time for them! A good day all around, excellent food and company as is the case when we visit them.

So, today’s blip is of part of a Morris work and being of a flower is also a contribution to FlowerFriday.