Plaque with Portrait of Mrs. William Eden, Lady Auckland c. 1789

This is a plaque with a portrait of Mrs. William Eden, Lady Auckland, made by the Wedgwood Manufactory. The Wedgwood company was established in 18th century England, and quickly became associated with high-end ceramic production. The firm's specialization in jasperware, like the blue and white seen here, imitated the look of ancient cameos, appealing to consumers eager to identify with classical ideals. The neoclassical style was popular among the elite, and the company developed a reputation for catering to aristocratic tastes. Lady Auckland's portrait, set in a gold frame, reflects the fashion of the time, especially among affluent women. Though portraits had long been the domain of painters, the Wedgwood firm cleverly adapted this tradition to the medium of molded ceramics. To better understand this work, consider researching the market for luxury goods in 18th century Britain, and the history of the Wedgwood company itself. By doing so, we can see how this portrait reflects specific social structures and economic conditions.