Waterhouse Wallhangings

About Waterhouse Wallhangings

The beautiful collection of early designs consists entirely of authentic reproductions of original wallpapers which were first used in this country, circa 1700-1890. During these years, sea captains returning from trading in France, England, and sometimes China, brought back with them, as part of their cargo, handmade papers. These were designed by true artists who excelled in the creation and painting of wall hangings. Many of the designs were inspired by the valuable brocades and tapestries which adorned the homes of the wealthy. The imported papers were sold for the most part in New England seaport cities and towns.

For many years, Dorothy Waterhouse visited lovely old New England homesteads, searching beneath layers of wallpaper or paint - or in attics, trunks, and old boxes - for fragments of original wall hangings. The results have been most rewarding, for many documentary papers have been found with colors and designs almost as true as the day the papers were made. Since many were created before the machine age, they were often painted completely by hand, stenciled, or by a carved wood block. The colors used were of home-mixed pigments and the designs the finest examples of grace in composition. So superior are these designs that they will always be in good taste. They rank with such find old furniture as Chippendale and Sheraton and with early works of art.

Fortunately the designs adapt themselves as perfect backgrounds for any room setting, traditional or contemporary. We must remember that they are an important part of our American heritage.

Contact Us

For further information please contact:
Daniel Recoder, Vice President of Product Developement
drecoder@christophernormancollection.com
Christopher Norman Collection
212.644.5301.