Owen Jones Floral Origami Lantern

Owen Jones (1809-1874) was an English architect and one of the most influential modern designers of the Victorian era, who greatly influenced many artists including Christopher Dresser and William Morris.

Born in London, he trained as an architect at the Royal Academy. At the age of 23, he went on the Grand Tour--a rite of passage for aristocratic young men in Britain—visiting historic sites throughout Europe. Jones was enthralled by the Alhambra Palace in Spain. Captivated by the vibrant kaleidoscopic patterns and intricate architecture, he spent 6 months making detailed studies which became his first book on Eastern art.

In his search for a unique modern style, Jones found inspiration in the art of the ancient world. His bold theories on the use of color, geometry and abstraction formed the basis for his seminal publication, The Grammar of Ornament, a design sourcebook that is still in print 150 years later.

He published many books drawn from historical motifs from around the globe, among them “The Grammar of Chinese Ornament,” from which our beautiful floral pattern is derived.