To view any of our past lectures please visit our YouTube channel.
10am-4pm (last entry 3.30pm), free admission
William Morris was a nineteenth-century craftsman, designer, writer, environmentalist, socialist, and much more. He is commonly referred to as the Father of the Arts & Crafts Movement and in his early years was associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. In May 2024, the Society of Antiquaries celebrates William Morris Day for the first time. This day was chosen to mark the moment in 1871 when Morris first saw Kelmscott Manor, which was to become his summer house in Oxfordshire. Kelmscott Manor passed into SAL’s ownership in 1962. Holding an annual celebration of William Morris across both sites every year will make clear the link between Kelmscott Manor and the Society, as well as starting to establish connections between other museums and historic houses concerned with Morris and his circle.
Come along to Burlington House on Open Friday on 17 May to view a temporary display of around twenty rarely-seen objects, images, and books from our collections. These items showcase Morris’s creative processes and provide a glimpse into his domestic and family life. They also record his life as a Fellow (Morris was elected FSA in 1894). The day is a unique chance for Morris scholars and enthusiasts to chat to staff and volunteers about the display and about what they’d like to see at William Morris Day in the future.
On display, you will be able to see…
Open Fridays are part of our Sensing History at the Society of Antiquaries project, which is kindly supported by, National Lottery Heritage Fund, John Murray Charitable Trust, Movement For Good, & Museum Development London.