Moresque No.4a 1856

Here we see Owen Jones's "Moresque No.4a," an undated ornamental design print, showcasing a symphony of geometric forms and vibrant colors. Jones was an English architect and designer, who became a pivotal figure in the 19th-century ornamental reform movement. This print reflects the Victorian era's fascination with exoticism, and in particular, Islamic art. The "Moresque" style, a term derived from "Moorish," signifies the adaptation of North African and Spanish Islamic motifs into Western art and design. Jones, influenced by his extensive travels in Islamic countries, sought to codify the principles of Islamic design, believing them to hold universal aesthetic value. However, this appropriation raises questions about cultural representation, power dynamics, and the West's selective interpretation of non-Western art forms. As you gaze upon the intricate patterns, consider how Jones's work embodies both a genuine appreciation for Islamic art and the complexities of cultural exchange. The emotional impact of these beautiful patterns, while visually captivating, is inseparable from their historical context.