John Moyr Smith (1839–1912) was a Scottish designer, architect, and illustrator known for his distinctive contributions to the Aesthetic Movement and the decorative arts in late 19th-century Britain. Trained under Alfred Waterhouse and George Gilbert Scott, Smith developed a strong architectural background before turning his attention to decorative design. He is best known for his ceramic tile panels featuring classical, literary, and mythological subjects, many of which were produced by leading firms such as Minton and Co. His designs often combined intricate line work with narrative detail and were popular in both domestic and public interiors. In addition to tile work, Smith designed stained glass, furniture, wallpapers, and book illustrations, all marked by a refined sense of composition and historical reference. His work reflects the intellectual and artistic ideals of the Aesthetic Movement, with an emphasis on beauty, storytelling, and the unity of the decorative arts.
