RORY HUTTON LTD – SILK SCARVES CELEBRATING THE 400TH ANNIVERSARY OF SHAKESPEARE’S FIRST FOLIO

Images courtesy of Rory Hutton Ltd

The 400^th Anniversary Of The Publication Of Shakespeare’s First Folio

2023 marks the 400th anniversary of the publication of Shakespeare’s First Folio, one of the world’s most valuable literary treasures. In celebration the book has received a unique tribute from printmaker and accessories designer, Rory Hutton.

Rory Hutton Ltd – BW First Folio Scarf, £95

The First Folio collection takes centre-stage in Rory’s extensive range of signature silk scarves – the new additions feature bold colours, dramatic linocut illustrations and includes two long scarves, two square scarves, a pocket square, and a hand fan.

Rory Hutton Ltd – Gold Shakespeare Scarf, £95

Resplendent in black, gold, red, and grey, the new collection features the titles of Shakespeare’s plays, references to the First Folio’s publication date, Shakespeare’s birth and death years, and his portrait, as well as figures dressed in Elizabethan costume, and recurring motifs in the plays, including a rose, crown, dagger, skull, and quill pen.

Rory Hutton Ltd –  Gold Shakespeare Scarf, £95

Published seven years after Shakespeare’s death, the First Folio includes 36 of his plays, thanks to the hard work and dedication of two of his friends and fellow actors, John Heminge and Henry Condell, who gathered the plays together. If they had not committed to collecting the work for the book, modern day experts on Shakespeare’s life and work have stated that half of all of his plays (including Macbeth, Twelfth Night, As You Like It, The Tempest, and Antony and Cleopatra) would have been lost forever.

The First Folio was printed in London and published in an edition of around 750 in November 1623. Just over 230 copies have survived to this day.

Presented by Melandas Indonesia

Speaking at the launch of his ‘First Folio 400’ range, Rory Hutton said: “The ‘First Folio 400’ scarves, pocket square, and hand fan have made a dramatic entrance into my collection, and I hope that they will appeal to Shakespeare lovers, theatre goers, and anyone who enjoys adding a theatrical flourish to their favourite outfits.

“As well as celebrating the anniversary of this hugely important book and recognising Shakespeare’s enduring legacy as a playwright and poet, these pieces serve as a ‘thank you’ to Heminge and Condell for saving so much of Shakespeare’s work for future generations.”

Rory Hutton Ltd – First Folio 1623 Pocket Square, £38

Alongside creating his own collections, since 2018 Rory Hutton has designed over 100 silk scarves in collaboration with many of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious arts and heritage institutions, responding to their collections, performances and exhibitions. Known for his lively linocut illustrations and bold block colours, Rory Hutton delights in reinterpreting historical themes and imbuing them with a contemporary twist.

Rory Hutton Ltd – Red First Folio 1623 Scarf, £95

Rory Hutton’s ‘First Folio 400’ collection is available to order from www.roryhutton.co.uk and is be available to purchase in store at the British Museum, The National Theatre, The Royal Opera House and Westminster Abbey. The long scarves (45 x 180cm) and square scarves (90 x 90cm) are both priced at £95; the pocket square (33x33cm) is priced at £38; and the hand fan is priced at £65. The scarves and pocket square are made of 100% silk with rolled edges, and are printed and finished in Italy. The fan, which features a screen print design, is handmade in Spain, and has a sustainable redwood frame. (text by Press Loft)

Rory Hutton Ltd – First Folio Fan, £65