Copyright: Public domain
Owen Jones produced this study of Byzantine ornament at some point during his career as a designer and architect in the 19th century. The process involved in creating this artwork is significant: it showcases Jones's interest in historical design. His technique combines traditional artistic methods with industrial techniques of the time, such as chromolithography, which allowed for the mass production of color prints. The medium influences its appearance through the flat, graphic quality, and the precision of line and color. Jones carefully analyzed and reproduced the forms of Byzantine ornament, employing a variety of techniques to capture their essence. In his reproductions, Jones was engaging with a longer history of creative practices. His approach reflects a desire to elevate design to the level of fine art, breaking down distinctions between them. This interest in historical design speaks to wider social issues, especially the changing landscape of labor and taste in the industrial era. His artwork serves as a reminder of the importance of materials and context, when assessing design or art.
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