Printed for the first time on a sumptuous velvet Snakeshead was originally designed by William Morris in 1876. The dramatic flame-like motif and alternating spiky clusters of foliage seem held in suspension by the delicate scrolling tendrils that form the pattern’s background. Influenced by the coloring and patterns of Indian textiles, this design was one of Morriss's favorites, taking its name from the nodding snakes head fritillary blooms that complement larger, more formal motifs.