William Morris Indian Design tea towel

£14.00
100% Organic Cotton
Made in the UK
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  • Sturdy half panama unbleached US cotton (48cm x 70cm)
  • Our special inks mean that colours last in the wash
  • Includes hanging loop
  • Designed and manufactured in the UK
  • Delivery with Royal Mail, free on orders over £35
  • 100-day money back guarantee if you change your mind

A British artist, poet, novelist, and ardent socialist, William Morris is best known as the 19th century's most celebrated textile designer, responsible for the some of the most recognisable textile patterns from the century. He was a radical in both his art and politics, refusing to follow the consensus. Disillusioned by the Victorian era's focus on dehumanising industrial systems that produced poor-quality, 'unnatural' objects, Morris championed the principle of handmade production, establishing the British Arts and Crafts Movement. Aware of the deep divisions in contemporary society, he declared himself a socialist, and in 1884 he helped set up a new group called the Socialist League, making frequent street-corner speeches and using his fame and artwork to further these objectives. 

This tea towel is inspired by the iconic "Indian" wallpaper design initially produced in 1868-70 by Morris & Co. Although this wallpaper was produced by the company of William Morris, it was not designed by Morris himself. A letter from Morris's business manager suggests that it was actually the work of the architect George Gilbert Scott (1839-1897). Scott was clearly influenced by the elegance and beauty of Indian aesthetics.

Click on the 'specifications' tab for more information about this product, including material, size and care instructions.

Half Panama unbleached organic cotton (heavy weight, textured finish). Stitched on all four sides. Includes hanging loop. Measures approximately 48cm x 70cm. Machine wash at 40 degrees centigrade max. We recommend that before you use your tea towel for the first time you wash it at least once to soften up the material and make it more absorbent for drying dishes. Please note size can vary slightly.