Printed for the first time on a sumptuous velvet Snakeshead was originally designed by William Morris in 1876. The dramatic flame-like motif and alternating spiky clusters of foliage seem held in suspension by the delicate scrolling tendrils that form the pattern’s background.
Influenced by the colouring and patterns of Indian textiles, this design was one of Morris favourites, taking its name from the nodding snake's head fritillary blooms that complement larger, more formal motifs. Snakeshead Velvet is suitable or drapes and upholstery.
Width: 135 cm
Horizontal Repeat: 22 cm
Vertical Repeat: 32.5 cm
Martindale: 40000
Domestic Usage: Upholstery, Curtains and Blinds, Cushions
Contract Usage: Suitable for contract upholstery, curtains, blinds and cushions
Design Code - 236937
*Please note that fabric cannot be returned
*Sold in 1-metre increments
As a political theorist, publisher, environmental campaigner, poet, as well as an outstanding designer, William Morris (1834–1896) was one of the single most influential figures of the nineteenth century. Under his direction Morris & Co. grew to the status of Arts & Crafts icon that it remains to this day.
Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. (1861–1875) was a furnishings and decorative arts manufacturer and retailer founded by the artist and designer William Morris with friends from the Pre-Raphaelites. With its successor Morris & Co. (1875–1940) the firm's medieval-inspired aesthetic and respect for hand-craftsmanship and traditional textile arts had a profound influence on the decoration of churches and houses into the early 20th century.
Although its most influential period was during the flourishing of the Arts and Crafts Movement in the 1880s and 1890s, Morris & Co. remained in operation in a limited fashion from World War I until its closure in 1940. The firm's designs are still sold today under licences given to Sanderson & Sons.
