Art Institute of Chicago

Strawberry Thief

Designed by William Morris (English, 1834–1896)

Date

Design 1883, made 1883–1917

Medium

Cotton; plain weave, block printed, wool trim with tassels

Department

Textiles

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

Islamic textiles informed the design of this 19th-century printed curtain. William Morris, a key figure in the British Arts and Crafts Movement, reportedly fashioned this pattern after watching birds steal strawberries from his kitchen garden. The flattened profile of the birds as well as the stylization of the plant forms highlight Morris's appreciation and adaptation of Islamic designs. These small birds invading a strawberry patch have charmed consumers for more than 120 years, making Strawberry Thief one of the most recognizable and popular Morris & Co. patterns. It can be seen on wallpaper as well as dishtowels, shower curtains, and tea cups, and it even has its own Wikipedia page and spinoff video game.

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