Cameo with Minerva c. late 18th century

This small cameo, created by the Wedgwood Manufactory in the late 18th century, features a profile portrait of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, war, and crafts. The white jasperware cameo is set in a blue jasperware background and framed with a gilded wooden frame. The delicate craftsmanship of the cameo exemplifies the Wedgwood Manufactory's celebrated mastery of neoclassical aesthetics during the period. The cameo, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, stands as a testament to the enduring influence of classical mythology and art on the decorative arts.