The Grammar of Ornament

Art Historical Context

"The Grammar of Ornament," published in 1856 by Owen Jones with lithographic work by Francis Bedford, stands as a landmark reference for decorative design. This expansive bound volume gathers 100 vividly printed plates that systematically explore patterns drawn from diverse cultures and historical periods. Its large page size of roughly 22 by 14½ inches allows each intricate motif to be studied in detail, reflecting the era’s growing interest in design education and the principles underlying beautiful ornament. Chromolithography, the medium employed here, was still a relatively new color-printing technique in the mid-nineteenth century. By layering multiple stones, Bedford could reproduce the rich hues and fine details of original artifacts with remarkable fidelity. The result transformed a scholarly study into an accessible visual resource that designers, architects, and manufacturers could consult directly. Today the volume remains a touchstone for understanding how nineteenth-century reformers sought to distill universal “rules” of ornament. Its careful documentation and innovative printing helped shape later movements in applied art, demonstrating the enduring power of thoughtful pattern-making.