Spectrum: Heritage Patterns and Colours

A visual analysis of the colours used in furnishing fabrics and wallpapers from the 15th century to now, providing inspiration for designers

Spectrum offers a fascinating visual analysis of the colour palettes used in furnishing fabrics and wallpapers from the 15th century to the present day. Presented in chronological order, the earliest detail is taken from an early 15th-century embroidery in brick red, dusky pink, sage green, mustard yellow and smoky blue, the last from a graphic wallpaper design of 2009 that combines orange and yellow on a dramatic, dark background. Next to each pattern is a colour grid, which shows the relative proportions of the colours used, each labelled with its CMYK number – a worldwide standard printing code for colour that precisely identifies it. The grid gives a clear understanding of the ways colours have been expertly combined at different periods to create the beautiful designs we admire and emulate today.

This unique sourcebook will provide inspiration for all designers, both amateur and professional.

Contents List

Introduction • FABRICS • 15th century • 16th century • 17th century • 18th century • 19th century • 20th century • 21st century • Further reading

About the Author

Ros Byam Shaw is a journalist who writes on design and interiors for The World of Interiors and House and Garden. She is the author of Farrow & Ball Living with Colour and Farrow & Ball Decorating with Colour as well as numerous other books on historic houses and interiors.