Medallion with Women and Urn c. late 18th century

This medallion with women and urn, made by Wedgwood Manufactory, features a striking contrast. The serene blue oval within, sets off the cool white figures of the woman and urn. This central image is then surrounded by an ornate, textured border of small, reflective elements, creating a dynamic interplay between simplicity and complexity. The medallion’s composition invites us to consider its structural elements. The central motif, rendered in neoclassical style, speaks to a fascination with antiquity. The woman, draped in classical garb, leans gracefully against the urn, which becomes a pillar, which creates a balanced and harmonious relationship between the figures and the urn. Yet, the border disrupts this classical harmony. Its decorative excess destabilizes the purity of the central image. The eye is drawn to the surface, to the play of light and shadow across the textured border. Ultimately, this medallion is more than just a decorative object, it is an intellectual game. It is a conversation between different visual languages and historical periods, inviting us to question fixed meanings.