ABSTRACT
The Select Committee on Arts and Principles of Design had a remit to 'enquire into the best means of extending knowledge of the Arts and Principles of Design among the people'. Chaired by the Liberal MP William Ewart, the Committee invited numerous witnesses from the arts, industries, and other agents, to give evidence. Many of the witnesses, including architects and engineers, were important members of the art and design community. George Morant was the principal of the firm of G. Morant & Son, Carvers, Gilders & Upholsterers to the Queen. George Morant was also an 'encourager of art', being an active founder and a committee member of the Art Union of London. Morant's evidence throws light on the situation for the business of the exclusive decorator-designer at the time. The Penny Magazine then quoted from Morant’s evidence and also cited David Hay’s work on The Laws of Harmonious Colouring adapted to Interior Decorations.
