Cameo medallion 1769 - 1780

This cameo medallion was produced by Wedgwood and Bentley around 1775, made of Jasperware. This material is a type of stoneware known for its matte, unglazed finish. The process begins with mixing a precise blend of clay, silica, and barium sulfate. This yields a fine-grained body that is then stained with metallic oxides to create a range of colors. Here, we see the iconic combination of a pale, raised figure against a darker background. To achieve this contrast, the background was formed first, then the delicate white details were carefully applied by hand. Wedgwood perfected this method, allowing for the mass production of these refined objects. This meant that classical imagery became accessible to a wider audience, reflecting the burgeoning consumer culture of the 18th century. This piece exemplifies the fusion of artistry and industry, blurring the boundaries between craft and fine art.