Books, Windows and Walls: exploring the Pre-Raphaelite Movement second phase influence on Frederick James Shields’ decorative works
Johannis Tsoumas
This paper aims to both examine and illustrate the evolution of the Pre-Raphaelites Brotherhood at the time of the Arts and Crafts Movement, in particular its new decorative physiognomy and influence on the work of one of its most debated followers: Frederick Shields. More specifically, the article primarily focuses on the second phase of the remodelled Pre-Raphaelite ideology (and, consequently, practice), traces of which can be found in the works of Shields, a little known but extremely skilful artist and decorator. Shields’ course of life as well as his achievements in decorative arts made him one of the probably most «challenging» figures in the world of Victorian decorative arts. His works in several art fields such as illustration, stained glass and wall painting are examined, compared and thoroughly contrasted to some of the major Pre-Raphaelite representatives’ works, bringing into light new and valuable findings about their influence on artists who, like Shields, are of possibly lower recognition, but not lesser value.