Whan That Aprille
A Digital Homage to the Kelmscott Chaucer
First published in 1896 by the Kelmscott Press, The Works of Geoffrey Chaucer — commonly known as the Kelmscott Chaucer — stands as one of the most celebrated achievements in the history of book design. Conceived by William Morris and illustrated by Edward Burne-Jones, the volume reflects the ideals of the Arts & Crafts movement: craftsmanship, beauty, and a reverence for the medieval world.
The opening page of The Canterbury Tales begins with the iconic line, “Whan that Aprille with his shoures soote…”, introducing the General Prologue. Here, spring awakens both nature and the soul, stirring within people the desire for pilgrimage. This poetic journey, both literal and spiritual, lies at the heart of Chaucer’s work — and of this recreation.
Artistic Intent
This piece is not a facsimile, but a devotional reinterpretation of the Kelmscott opening — rendered digitally in the spirit of quiet homage.
Each element was reimagined using digital tools, respecting the typographic and ornamental language of the original while making subtle refinements. The central image — a solitary poet among birds and gardens — evokes the contemplative space where writing, memory, and season converge. Surrounding it are two botanical borders: one floral, one grape-laden, framing the work like a sacred folio.
Color choices follow the Digital Benedictine aesthetic: muted greens, earthy reds, warm parchment creams, and the deep browns of carved wood. These tones echo the palette of medieval manuscripts and the Morrisian ideal of natural harmony.
A Living Page
The layout combines visual structure with poetic rhythm. The illuminated “W” anchors the text, while lines of Chaucer’s verse unfurl beside it in Middle English — a language both strange and familiar, echoing across centuries.
This project reflects not only the literary legacy of Chaucer, but also the belief that typography, when done with care and reverence, becomes a form of prayer.
View or Collect
This piece is available as a fine art print through Fine Art America.