Greek no. 3. The various forms of the Greek fret. 

Owen Jones produced this plate of lithographs illustrating various forms of the Greek fret. It is one of many plates found in his highly influential book, "The Grammar of Ornament" published in 1856. Jones' work can be seen as an early example of industrial design, applying the principles of mass production to aesthetics. The regularity and precision of the patterns suggests a mechanistic, almost factory-like approach, far removed from the hand-crafted imperfections that characterized earlier design traditions. The very act of cataloging and classifying these designs speaks to the industrial mindset of the 19th century, organizing and standardizing artistic expression. Ultimately, Jones sought to reconcile art and industry, believing that good design could improve the lives of the working class, but his designs and method of production also mirrored the capitalist structures of his time.