Christopher Dresser : A Pioneer of Modern Design

by Widar Halen

Christopher Dresser (1834-1904) was one of the most advanced English industrial designers of his age. His work in silver, ceramics, glass, furniture and textiles has been a significant influence on contemporary taste in America and Europe, and can be found in major museums such as the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. The simple beauty and imaginative power of his designs have ensured that his work is widely sought by contemporary collectors throughout the world. This book is the first ever comprehensive history of Dresser's creative life and long career, compiled with incisive analysis and aesthetic sensitivity.

Genres: Art, Design

208 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1990

Reviews

[Paul]

This was the ninth book I read under quarantine. If you are interested in learning about the career of Dr. Christopher Dresser, you will enjoy this book. I read this book slowly. It is densely factual, and ten pages a day was the most I could absorb. Still, it is a fascinating read. Dresser is renowned for his Japanese-influenced designs. This influence was profound. He immersed himself in the culture of Japan, and he studied the influence Shintoism and Buddhism had on the country's art. His designs incorporated "artistic botany," where cross sections of plants or flowers are rendered as patterns in his designs. He was also inspired by the pattern of frost on his windows.

I encourage you to read the Phaidon Edition, as I did. It has 231 plates, and many of these are full-page color photographs. You will come away from this book in awe of the breadth of Dresser's ability. Highly recommended.