Books About Art: Spotlight on the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Collection
If you’re searching for books about art that combine visual inspiration, history, and design, the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Collection is a true standout. These volumes bring the world of the V&A Museum - one of the world’s most influential art and design institutions - right to your bookshelf or coffee table.
About the Victoria and Albert Museum: A Legacy of Creativity
The roots of the Victoria and Albert Museum stretch back to 1852, when it first opened its doors as the Museum of Manufactures at Marlborough House in London. Not long after, it was renamed the Museum of Ornamental Art, and by 1857, the collection found a new home in South Kensington as the South Kensington Museum. The museum finally became the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1899, a name chosen when Queen Victoria laid the foundation stone for its impressive new buildings along Exhibition Road and Cromwell Road. Throughout its history, the V&A has been dedicated to making art and design accessible to all, encouraging creativity across society.
The V&A has always been at the forefront of innovation, introducing gas lighting and evening opening hours - both museum firsts. Its founders believed that exposure to outstanding design could enhance daily life and inspire progress in industry. Today, the V&A is home to more than 2.3 million objects, chronicling 5,000 years of creativity and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore everything from Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks to the world’s oldest dated carpet, and even marvel at full-size plaster casts of masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David in the museum’s famous Cast Courts. The V&A also pioneered museum cafés and interactive learning for children, setting standards that others still follow. Its influence now extends to Scotland, where V&A Dundee continues the tradition of celebrating design and innovation. Discover more about the V&A’s remarkable journey. Or explore 100 fascinating facts about this impressive museum.
The Victoria and Albert Colour Books: Bringing Art Home
Published in the late 1980s by Webb and Bower (UK) and Harry N. Abrams (US), the Victoria and Albert Colour Books series invites readers to explore the museum’s decorative arts collections from home. Each book explores a unique theme, pairing beautiful photography with engaging commentary. These volumes are just as enjoyable to read as they are to display, making wonderful gifts for anyone passionate about art or design.
A Closer Look at Selected Titles
Ornate Wallpapers
Dive into the fascinating history of wallpaper, from the earliest hand-printed patterns to the bold, intricate designs that defined Victorian interiors. This volume reveals how wallpapers evolved as both status symbols and creative canvases, featuring dazzling reproductions from the V&A’s archives. You’ll discover the stories behind the makers, the artistic movements that shaped each era, and how these decorative masterpieces found their way into homes both grand and modest. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply love beautiful things, this book is a visual delight and a source of inspiration for any creative project. View the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Ornate Wallpapers here.
Decorative Endpapers
Often overlooked, endpapers are the secret treasures of book design—those patterned or illustrated sheets just inside the covers. This book uncovers their hidden artistry, exploring how endpapers have been used for centuries to add personality, luxury, and intrigue to books. Through vivid images and engaging commentary, you’ll learn how artists and printers turned this humble element into a showcase for creativity, from marbled swirls and botanical motifs to geometric patterns and bespoke commissions. It’s a celebration of the details that make every book unique. Discover the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Decorative Endpapers here .
Tile Paintings
Tiles are more than practical – they’re expressions of culture, artistry, and innovation. This volume journeys from the medieval mosaics of Europe to the ornate tiles of Victorian Britain, revealing how tiles have brightened homes, palaces, and public spaces for centuries. Richly illustrated and full of fascinating stories, the book explores the techniques, symbolism, and artistic trends that shaped tile design across eras. Perfect for anyone interested in architecture, interior design, or the decorative arts. Explore the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Tile Paintings here .
Novelty Fabrics
Step into a world of playful prints and bold experimentation. “Novelty Fabrics” celebrates the creativity that flourished in textile design during the 19th and 20th centuries, showcasing patterns that broke the mould – from whimsical animals and lively florals to abstract shapes and modernist designs. The book highlights the social and artistic influences behind these fabrics, making it a must-read for fashion lovers, textile collectors, and anyone who appreciates the unexpected in design. Discover the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Novelty Fabrics here .
Patterns for Textiles
Textile design is an art form that blends tradition, innovation, and everyday beauty. This book invites you to explore a rich tapestry of patterns, from timeless classics to avant-garde experiments. With stunning illustrations and insightful commentary, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the skill and imagination behind fabrics that have adorned everything from couture gowns to home interiors. Ideal for students, designers, and anyone fascinated by the stories woven into fabric. View the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Patterns for Textiles here .
Patterns for Papers
Discover the artistry of decorative papers – used in wallpaper, bookbinding, and even gift wrap. This volume showcases a dazzling array of patterns, from elegant damasks to cheerful florals and bold geometrics. Through the V&A’s collection, you’ll learn how paper design has evolved, influenced by changing tastes, technology, and artistic movements. A treat for anyone who loves stationery, crafts, or the history of everyday objects. Explore the Victoria and Albert Colour Books Patterns for Papers here .
The Lasting Appeal of the V&A Colour Books
What makes these books special is their blend of visual impact, historical insight, and design inspiration. Whether you’re looking for a conversation starter, a thoughtful gift, or a source of creative ideas, these books offer something for everyone - artists, students, designers, and casual readers alike.
Collecting Art Books: What to Consider
Every collector values something different - some seek pristine first editions, while others appreciate books with a bit of character and history. The Victoria and Albert Colour Books in our collection are all in excellent condition, but we know that art books of all kinds can have value, regardless of wear. If you’re curious about what book condition terms mean, check out our guide: Understanding Book Condition Terms: Your Guide to collectable, vintage, antique & second-hand books.
Choose books that match your interests - whether that’s art history, design, textiles, or architecture - and enjoy building a collection that reflects your personal style.
Why J.W.B Books?
At J.W.B Books, we select every title for quality and inspiration. Our Victoria and Albert Colour Books are described in detail and ready to spark your creativity or make a perfect gift. We’re always happy to offer advice or help you find a new favourite.
See our current selection of Art, Architecture and Design books here.
The Victoria and Albert Colour Books Collection is a testament to the museum’s legacy of creativity and learning. Whether you’re expanding your library, searching for a special gift, or just love beautiful books, these volumes are a joy to discover and share.
If you’d like more information about any title or want help choosing the perfect book, just get in touch - we’re always happy to help fellow art lovers find their next great read!
