The Swan House carpets were originally designed by William Morris, circa 1881, commissioned by Wickham Flowers, M.P. for Old Swan House, Chelsea Embankment. These traditional designs illustrate Morris' vast knowledge and understanding of the history of carpet design and owe much of their inspiration to the 16th and 17th Century Turkish velvets and the Persian 'medallion' designs.

This unique carpet very closely resembles the original watercolour design for the Swan House. The variations would indicate that it was private commission.

We are grateful to Linda Parry of the Victoria & Albert Museum for her help in dating and attributing this carpet.

Cf. Linda Parry, William Morris Textiles, London 1983, p.93, Swan House watercolour design illustrated.