Antique William Morris Arts & Crafts Textile BB8372 5'4" × 6'5" $4,000

A fine example of early 20th-century British textile design, this antique tapestry reflects the aesthetic brilliance of the Arts & Crafts movement and the iconic influence of William Morris, one of its founding figures. Woven in England around the 1900s, the textile showcases a refined sense of craftsmanship, intricate patterning, and the naturalistic motifs characteristic of Morris’s philosophy of design.

The composition is anchored by a symmetrical and richly detailed layout featuring stylized birds—possibly peacocks or phoenixes—with elaborately curved wings rendered in soft coral and indigo blue. These avian forms are interlaced with a complex botanical network of scrolling foliage, acanthus leaves, and rosettes, all executed in muted sage greens and dusty pinks against a soft beige ground. The pattern flows in a mirrored repeat, creating visual harmony and rhythmic structure across the surface.

Handwoven in a tapestry weave technique, the textile displays the high quality and attention to detail that defined Morris & Co. productions. The reverse side reveals clear evidence of the handloom process, with crisp delineation of color bands and tight, controlled wefting. Despite some patina and minor signs of age, the piece retains its integrity and historical character, making it a desirable object for collectors, designers, or curators.

This rare textile is not only a decorative statement but also a tangible connection to the ideals of the Arts & Crafts movement: harmony with nature, traditional craftsmanship, and the elevation of functional objects to the realm of fine art.

Showcasing the finest materials and patterns, this design is part of the expansive Doris Leslie Blau collection, renowned for its rare and unique finds across a wide range of prices.