The Exhibition

Christopher Dresser was one of the most influential designers of his time. A contemporary of William Morris, he is widely known as Britain's first independent, industrial designer.

At a time when the design of mass–produced items often favoured novelty and availability over taste or rational, Dresser pioneered a new modern style creating beautiful objects for the emerging consumer culture.

Dresser's influences included Japanese, Egyptian and Asian art and design, as well as abstract pattern based on his study of botany. A trip to Japan for the V&A in 1876 transformed his style, leading him to focus on the quality of materials and simplicity of form.

This exhibition is the first UK retrospective on Dresser and examines the whole spectrum of his work, including metalwork, furniture, ceramics and textiles, from his early more decorative designs to his later streamlined minimalist work.