Day 53: Something Beautiful—William Morris Oranges

Something Beautiful is a 2013 self-imposed initiative to find a visual feast for each day of the year.

During a visit to any art museum I typically find my way to the arts and crafts movement collections. I am attracted to the sometimes odd counterpoint of plain, linear Stickley pieces and the curvaceous whimsey of other pieces leaning closer to Art Nouveau. Ironically, my house only holds one simple English bar table of that style. The rest is an eclectic mix of modern, cottage, and asian-inspired pieces. The handwork I have done over the years is probably more ornate than anything else I own with the exception of some beautifully designed scarves. Thus some personal perplexity about my love of William Morris designs.

Again, ornate does not typically resonate with me. But Morris’ choice of color, shape, and line are perfect. His craftsmanship—divine. I had a difficult time selecting one to admire today and so have committed to sharing several over the next few days. They are all something quite beautiful, but I begin with two featuring oranges. Why do I like them so much? Maybe I have an affinity because in Belgian “Bogaert” means orchard or grove of trees. Maybe it is the color orange of which I am so fond. Maybe it is all these things and I suspect a few other reasons that these beautiful designs bring me pleasure and much more.