ABSTRACT
Christopher Dresser arguably became the first industrial designer, identified by name on his work, which included ceramic, glass, metal, furniture, wallpapers, and textiles. He was influenced by Owen Jones, whose Grammar of Ornament of 1856 included Dresser’s first published botanical illustration. The review in the British Architect was nothing if not tongue-in-cheek. They rather ridiculed Dresser’s approach and quoted details from his book as evidence of idiosyncrasy. In all Egyptians ornament the Egyptians will find these characters manifested—the very characteristics necessary to the greatness of a nation at that period of the world’s history. But besides the dignity and severity of the drawing of the Egyptians, almost every form was the symbol of a special thought or idea. Greek ornament was only intended as an expression of the most perfect refinement of form, and of knowledge of the natural laws.
