Pimpernel Grey

This hand block printed design features large sensual tulips and their curling leaves, intwined with foliage and small pimpernel flowers. The pattern is a wonderful example of William Morris’ sense of humour since on initial inspection your eye is drawn towards the dominating, graphic tulip heads and yet the name of the design is attributed to the secondary floral detail; the smaller Pimpernel flower. The design layout is almost symmetrical and was hung at Kelmscott Manor, the summer home of William Morris in West Oxfordshire. The Gallery’s archive includes an original Pimpernel hand block printed wallpaper length. Pimpernel Grey displays a depth of detail through its multi-tonal palette of grey hues, subtly accentuated by notes of gold represented in the flowers featured weaving throughout. This wallpaper comes in a matt finish, adding a contemporary feel to a classical design.