A lovely book. A bit repetitious at times but beautifully written. ( )

If you are looking for a book to read when you are stressed and simply want to contemplatively bask in the beauty of the stunningly creative, exquisitely detailed prints contained therein, then take time to drink a glass of wine, or cup of coffee or tea, go to a quiet space and be prepared to unwind.

William Morris was well acquainted with members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. One of his best friends and mentors Dante Gabriel Rossetti introduced him to Jane Morris, who would become his wife and, in a sad triangle, using Jane as a muse and model, frustratingly tragic to Morris, Rossetti and Jane developed a life-long relationship.

William and Jane entertained members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood in their intricately designed Red House. Their residence became an inspirational meeting place for poets, writers and artists.

Later, moving to Kelmscott Manor, Morris honed his artistry when decorating with wallpapers and tapestries.

http://www.kelmscottmanor.org.uk/home

In mid life, Morris became increasingly dissatisfied with the industrialization of Victorian society. Becoming a socialist, his public lectures were forceful, animated and he adamantly railed against a society wherein machines manufactured goods at the expense of man-made artistic endeavors.

Becoming angry at a process that manipulated the poor masses while breeding what he called a tacky middle class, he believed that a society was crazy if in its out-of control progress it failed to improve the lives of the people who lived in that society.

Paradoxically, while Morris threw stones at those who were rapidly accumulating wealth at the expense of the downtrodden, Morris' status in life and wealth was inherited from his father who owned copper mines.

Later in life, he became very disillusioned with socialism stating that it failed to deliver a long-term solution to the betterment of society.

His legacy continues today. He was a genius of the arts and crafts movement, and his legacy of fine furnishings continues to inspire.

Highly recommended! ( )