Medallion with Sacrifice to Hymen c. late 18th century

Editor: Here we have a late 18th-century medallion from the Wedgwood Manufactory. It’s made of ceramic, with a blue background and white relief, depicting a scene of sacrifice. The whole thing is framed like jewelry! There's such a formal feeling to it, but I find myself really drawn to the miniature scale and the intimate scene. What’s your read on this piece? Curator: Intimate is such a lovely way to put it! I see a carefully staged drama, frozen in porcelain. Can you imagine the artist's hands meticulously layering each detail? For me, it’s like stumbling upon a secret ceremony from a bygone era, right? Editor: It definitely feels that way. Like we're peering into something private. What strikes me is the stark contrast of colors: how does that affect our understanding of the medallion’s symbolism? Curator: The blue and white aren't just aesthetic, are they? That sharp contrast enhances the clarity of the figures, and gives that Neoclassical 'frozen' feeling, doesn't it? Consider that Hymen, the god of marriage, would have been quite fashionable at the time. Almost like sending a greeting card now! This piece offers a glimpse into the refined tastes and romantic ideals of its original audience. Editor: So, it's like a wedding announcement, but make it art? Curator: Precisely! These objects were conversation starters. What I find delightful is the implied narrative-- we see a woman about to make a sacrifice to ensure her wedding goes well. It gives the classical reference a sense of humour that perhaps someone might miss in this stoic artwork. What do you think the little brazier might symbolize? Editor: Interesting point about the humor! Maybe that brazier represents the heat and passion of love? It's definitely making me reconsider the context for this artwork. Curator: See? It whispers secrets! Every little detail gives new meaning. Now I almost imagine a Jane Austen character fidgeting with a cameo exactly like it.