1856 Grammar of Ornament - Greek
By: Owen Jones
Date: 1856 (published) London
Dimensions: 20 x 12 inches (51 x 30.5 cm)
First Edition chromolithograph print from Owen Jones’ Grammar of Ornament depicting Greek styles of ornamentation in architecture and design. Published in 1856 by Day & Son.
This group features extremely detailed full color lithograph prints of geometric and decorative patterns common to 19th century Greek regions. Plates depict intricate stone carvings and tile work reminiscent of nature and religion. Available prints include Greek No.5, Greek No.6, and Greek No.8
Owen Jones' seminal design sourcebook, The Grammar of Ornament set the standard for full color lithography printing in the 19th century. The method used by London publishers Day & Son was chromolithography; an elaborate, and expensive method, sometimes requiring up to 20 separate lithographic stones and drawings for a single print. These meticulous studies depict some of the most impressive examples of decoration through many regions and time periods, all which fall under Jones’ principle of the idealization of nature.
Condition: Prints are in fine to very fine condition with minor tears and soiling in the margins, particularly on Greek No.8. Images are clean with vivid colors and paper is sturdy.
Inventory #90201 #90202 #90203
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