Victorian Maximalism in Wallpaper Design

Examine 19th-century aesthetics of Victorian wallpapers from the Materials Library’s collection of handprinted contemporary reproductions. Experience the Victorian maximalism of the Aesthetic Movement and the Arts & Crafts Movement, the designs of powerhouses like William Morris, the ways in which Japanese motifs were appropriated into western patterns, and the botanical whimsy employed for interior decoration.

This exhibition is curated by Michael Carroll, Assistant Director of the Fisher Fine Arts Library.

Plan Your Visit

On view January 26 to April 19, 2024. This exhibition is free and open to the public and located on the first floor of the Fisher Fine Arts Library at the University of Pennsylvania Libraries. Gallery hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.

Penn faculty, staff, and students must swipe their PennCard for access. Visitors from outside the Penn community must present a a current, valid government or school-issued photo I.D. that contains an expiration date. Find more information to plan your visit.