As this fabric came off the loom, and the long weft yarns on the reverse were trimmed, we recognised something truly special had happened. As beautifully drawn as the original pattern is, with all the detail of the traditional tree of life delicately depicted with the finest jacquard work, the “reverse” is spectacularly modern and exciting.
Patterns inspired by the geometry of nature have been popular for many centuries, and ORBIT is a new and fresh interpretation. A galaxy of interlocking hexagons embroidered on a linen ground brings the technique of crewel work right up to date. A available either in citrine, marine blue on white or white on natural.
I have been obsessed by hand painted Chinese wallpaper panels since I first came across the renowned examples at historic Belton House in the UK, at the age of 12. Such papers have been endlessly reproduced, beautifully and authentically, so I decided I wanted to make a no.9 version. Fantastical birds, butterflies and flowers emanate from softly painted plant life, all framed by sashaying bamboo to the sides.
Referencing the Isaak Danesen novel, “The Flame Trees Of Thika” set in Kenya in the early 20th century. Not only is the pattern a take on a classic flame stitch, the name also pays homage to the exotic spices of Indian Tikka...... Blocks of the repeat shift across the width, giving light and movement. It is printed on our rustic linen in three gorgeous colour palettes.
