Colombes et Lis by Verneuil Canvas Print

Back in 1897, this doves-and-lilies pattern belonged to another kind of home Belle poque salons with patterned wallpapers, brass sconces and parlour lilies in tall vases. On a quieter modern wall it stops feeling like wallpaper and starts feeling like a held breath. The olive-and-ochre ground recedes, the white wings step forward, and the room around it slows down. Hangs beautifully above a sideboard in a hallway, along a stair landing, or above a low bedhead in a calm bedroom. Pair it with linen, limed oak, aged brass and a single stoneware vessel. Don’t crowd it with other heavy florals or competing botanicals it wants one wall, breathing room, and warm side-light. Stretched on wooden bars for a soft, matte presence that holds the chalky greens beautifully.