3 Things We Just Love About J.H. Dearle

In conjunction with the William Morris Society exhibition, Morris’s Successor: John Henry Dearle, we’re celebrating the life of J.H. Dearle by sharing three things we simply adore about the Arts & Crafts creator.

VISIT THE EXHIBITION

As a shop assistant-turned-apprentice-turned-Morris & Co.-Art-Director, J.H. Dearle (1859-1932)  lived one of the most extraordinarily creative lives of the 19^th and 20^th centuries. His impact on Arts & Crafts culture ripples down through the ages and continues to play a part in the work we do here at Morris & Co. today.

1. From Humble Beginnings

Dearle’s 54-year career at Morris & Co. began as a shop assistant in the company’s store on Oxford Street, London, in 1878. He transferred to Morris & Co.’s stained-glass painting department, working in the mornings and studying design in the evenings.

William Morris handpicked him as his tapestry apprentice, where Dearle went on to add foliage details to works by Pre-Raphaelite painter and close friend of Morris, Sir Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898). Soon, Dearle was training new tapestry apprentices, a background that would serve him well later in his career.

2. A True Morris & Co. Education

In 1890, following William Morris’s increasing involvement in revolutionary politics, Dearle became head designer for Morris & Co. After Morris’s death in 1896, Dearle became the Art Director of the firm, employing his skills in managing textiles, wallpaper, stained glass and furniture.

During his 54-year career, Dearle is thought to have produced 30 wallpaper and 40 textile designs. Whilst his legacy has often been overshadowed by that of William Morris, as Dearle’s authorship begins to emerge, a loyal contingent is always willing to celebrate his incredible contribution to Morris & Co.

3. A New Visual Language

As well as being able to fully adopt the Morris & Co. style, Dearle was a master of grand motifs.

Large-scale, sweeping, energetic designs characterise much of his output, leaving an irresistible mark on British design. Below are three of our favourites.