Cameo with Diana and the Moon c. late 18th century

This cameo depicting Diana and the moon was produced by the Wedgwood Manufactory. During this period, classical imagery was often used to allude to power and status, particularly in depictions of women. Here, Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt and moon, is rendered in white against a blue background, set within an ornate frame. The choice of Diana, a powerful female figure, signals an interest in aligning the wearer with her strength and independence. The moon, a symbol often associated with femininity and cyclical change, adds another layer of meaning. The cameo, worn close to the body, becomes a personal emblem, a subtle yet powerful statement of identity. Consider how such an object might have been used to navigate the social complexities of its time, subtly challenging or reinforcing gender roles. What does it mean to carry the moon and the hunt with you?