Published in 1856, this dazzling book is a testament to Owen Jones’ passion for collecting: in this case a vast reservoir of design traditions and decorative motifs preserved in chromolithographic plates.  Jones (1809-1874) was an architect and interior designer known for his employment of color. The Grammar of Ornament includes over 100 full-page illustrations reproduced with startling clarity.

Taken out of context, the pages have the impression of elaborate patchwork, quilts and mismatched tiles.