They also commissioned many individual pieces. Many of the William Morris works were donated to the galley in 1982 by the Barr Smith family, and Christopher Menz, former curator of decorative arts (and now the director), consciously added to the collections in this area of distinctive strength. It is by far the best collection outside of England.
William Morris's company gained recognition at the London International Exhibition in 1862, this success resulting in some significant commissions such as designs for the interior of St James's Palace in 1866-67 and the beautiful Green Dining Room (now the Morris Room) at the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1867.
“His rich, lavish fabrics, carpets and embroideries, intricate wallpaper patterns and beautiful handcrafted furniture will appeal to a broad audience and it is a hugely welcomed exhibition for the Gallery to host early next year,” Ms Harper says.
Christchurch City Council