Medallion with Woman and Dog c. late 18th century

This small medallion, crafted by the Wedgwood Manufactory, presents a woman and a dog in delicate white relief against a blue background. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Wedgwood pottery became a symbol of refined taste and social status, reflecting the era's fascination with neoclassicism. The woman's posture, classically draped clothing, and melancholic expression resonate with romantic ideals of sensibility and virtue. Is this, perhaps, a modern day 'Nymph'? The presence of the dog, a symbol of fidelity, introduces another layer of meaning. Dogs were often associated with women, suggesting qualities of domesticity and loyalty. "Useful Plants and Instruction for all Families and all Manufactories" was Josiah Wedgwood's motto. Ultimately, this medallion invites us to consider the complex interplay of gender, class, and cultural values, inviting viewers to reflect on the stories we tell about ourselves and the world around us.