Peony
Design 1885–90, made 1905–17
Designed by John Henry Dearle (English, 1860-1932) Produced by Morris & Co., London (English, 1875–1940) Partially worked by Lady Phipson Beale (English, 1874–1963)
One of the most popular products of May Morris’s embroidery division were kits, which contained fabric marked with a design and the recommended embroidery thread. These kits allowed amateur embroiderers to have the satisfaction of making a beautiful object with their own hands. John Henry Dearle’s original drawing for Peony is annotated on the back by May Morris, who suggested the most appropriate use for the panel as part of a room divider screen.
Cotton ground, silk threads