The V&A Sourcebook of Floral Pattern & Ornament

This expertly compiled selection of surface pattern and three-dimensional ornamentation spotlights the boundless wonders of the plant world, from the woven vegetation of medieval tapestries and the lush greenery of Victorian chintzes to the delicate petals adorning Iznik ceramic masterpieces.

Based on the collection of the V&A, the world’s leading museum of art and design, this book highlights how floral patterns, embellishments, and ornamentation are everywhere, no matter the age of an object or where it was created. From Japanese kimonos to William Morris fabrics, and European tapestries to Mogul floor spreads and Chinese porcelain, these objects reveal humankind’s unceasing desire to incorporate flora into design. These numerous examples testify to the inventiveness of designers and craftspeople around the globe, and our yearning to surround ourselves with objects that enrich our lives.

Following a short introduction to flowers in design, the book is organized into five sections: Garden Flowers; Wildflowers; The Gardener; Woodland; and Floral Motifs. Each object is illustrated and described in a brief caption, providing a richly detailed yet accessible resource for design enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.