Pattern: Ashlar

One mark of a successful block printed pattern is when multiple design characteristics are rendered with just a few blocks. In the case of this ashlar (originally installed in the Medford, Massachusetts home of Andrew Blanchard) not only are the tools of dimensionality – bright highlights and accompanying shadows – depicted, but the nearly geologically accurate marbling is … Continued

This ashlar pattern was found at the 1809 Hedge House in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Ashlar patterns were a very common and enduring style in this period, often kept in use for long periods of time. Used predominantly in heavily trafficked areas such as passages or stair halls they had the practical benefit of being easily repaired … Continued

This unusual ashlar, with its fancifully specific veined stone delineated by a double dotted band, is difficult to assign a country of origin. The boldness of design and color choices suggests it could be French, while the loose rendering of the marbling may give credence to an American manufacturer. Ashlars of this scale were intended … Continued

The 18,000 square foot home of Sir Allan Napier MacNab in Hamilton, Ontario, was no doubt replete with wallpaper, but this pattern is one of the few of which fragments remain. It was likely installed in a bedroom, or possibly a sitting room. The use of the ashlar paper may have been intended to extend … Continued