As a designer, craftsman, and artist, William Morris revolutionized the art of the Nineteenth century. While his contributions were to the design of his times, Morris was passionate about the past - specifically the Middle Ages. And it was not only the appearance of the art of the Middle Ages that thrilled the imagination of Morris. Medieval artistic techniques were also the foundation for his explorations in design. Indeed, Morris was tireless in his experimentation in a myriad of media, from stained glass to wood, textiles to painting. He tried his hand at a number of these materials, carefully learning the skills needed to create beautiful and well-made objects.

In addition, Morris also excelled at something equally as important - understanding his own limitations as an artist. He made enthusiastic, if not exactly successful, forays into painting, as evidenced by his Queen Guinevere of 1858. After this somewhat disappointing experience, Morris abandoned painting in favor of concentrating on his real talent, which was as a designer. He has left us an enduring legacy of decorative and functional objects - including furniture, textiles, wallpaper, stained glass, book design and illustration, and tiles - many of which were created in conjunction with his firm, Morris and Co.