The Arts and Crafts movement emerged during the late Victorian period in England, then the most industrialised country in the world. This movement was a reaction to the industrialisation and mechanisation that dominated the era, which many felt led to a decline in the quality and integrity of produced goods. Spanning both decorative and fine arts, the movement emphasised the beauty and value of handcrafted work.

At its core, the Arts and Crafts movement advocated for economic and social reform. It promoted the idea that the process of making something by hand was inherently valuable, not just for the final product but for the maker's well-being and society as a whole. The movement stood against the dehumanising effects of mass production, seeking to bring art and craft back into daily life and make beautifully designed objects accessible to everyone.