Bird Wallpaper

William Morris’s Bird wallpaper is one of his most beloved and iconic textile and wallpaper designs, deeply rooted in the Arts and Crafts Movement. Here’s a vivid description:

Design & Motifs:

The wallpaper typically features birds nestled among lush foliage, fruiting branches, or flowering plants. One of the most famous versions, called "Strawberry Thief", shows thrushes stealing strawberries from a garden—based on real birds Morris saw in his Oxfordshire garden. The birds are often shown mid-peck or perched with an alert posture, giving a sense of natural movement.

  • The birds are stylized yet detailed, reflecting Morris's passion for medieval and naturalistic design.

  • The surrounding vegetation—leaves, blossoms, and vines—weaves through the scene in flowing, symmetrical patterns, creating a sense of harmony and rhythm.

Color Palette:

Morris used rich, earthy colors like:

  • Deep indigo and slate blues

  • Rusty reds

  • Olive and sage greens

  • Warm browns and creams

These tones give the wallpaper a timeless, handcrafted feel.

Craftsmanship & Technique:

  • Originally produced through block printing on paper or fabric.

  • Emphasis on organic, repeating patterns and hand-done artistry.

  • The intricate detail in the feathers and leaves showcases Morris's commitment to craftsmanship and beauty in everyday objects.

Historical Context:

  • Designed in the late 19th century (around 1883 for Strawberry Thief).

  • Reflects Morris’s ideals: beauty, nature, and artisan skill over industrial mass production.