1 / 7The V&A Sourcebook of Pattern and Ornament
The V&A Sourcebook of Pattern and Ornament is an illustrated reference to two-dimensional pattern and three-dimensional ornament, with more than 1,000 examples from different periods and regions. Its thematic organisation and brief explanations make it a visual resource for creative research, rather than a step-by-step design manual.
At a glance
- Presents more than 1,000 historic and contemporary examples from around the world.
- Covers both surface pattern and three-dimensional ornamentation.
- Examples are arranged thematically and briefly identified and explained.
- Illustrations include objects such as textiles, porcelain, furniture and decorative accessories.
Reference price: £28.00
Price checked: 12 Nov 2026
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Pros and cons
Pros
- The combination of two-dimensional patterns and three-dimensional embellishment gives visual research a broader scope than a surface-pattern-only collection.
- Thematic arrangement and concise explanations are suited to browsing for design inspiration.
- Its examples span historic and contemporary work from around the world.
Cons
- At 400 pages and a listed weight of 1.36 kg, it is better suited to reference or desk use than to carrying as a light everyday book.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Thames and Hudson Ltd |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 27 Feb. 2025 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 400 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0500298408 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0500298404 |
| Dimensions | 20.07 x 3.81 x 23.62 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 1.36 kg |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Designers, artists and illustrators looking for visual reference across pattern and ornament.
- Readers interested in decorative arts, objects and visual or material culture.
- Anyone seeking a browsable sourcebook rather than a practical, step-by-step project guide.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a focused guide to one artist, period or pattern-making technique.
- Buyers who need a lightweight book for frequent travel.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
83% 83% - 4 stars
10% 10% - 3 stars
3% 3% - 2 stars
3% 3% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback describes the book as an inspiration source for design and appreciates its informative overview and range of themes shown through photographs. This is relevant for buyers seeking visual browsing material, while the feedback does not establish how useful it is for a specific project or technique. Aggregate ratings are also broadly positive, though they do not explain individual readers’ reasons.
Positive themes
- Customers highlight its design inspiration and informative content.
- Feedback appreciates the breadth of themes represented in the photographs.
Frequently asked questions
What subjects does the book cover?
It brings together two-dimensional surface patterns and three-dimensional ornamentation, including examples from objects such as textiles, porcelain and furniture.
How is the material organised?
The examples are arranged thematically and are described with concise identifications and explanations.
Who may find it useful?
The listing presents it for designers, artists, illustrators, other creatives and readers interested in visual and material culture.
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