Title
Anti-Slavery Medallion
Creator
Date
after 1787
Description
A medallion (English, after 1787) made by Wedgwood. The oval jasperware medallion depicts a basalt bas-relief of a kneeling slave in chains with raised hands grasped together against a white ground, surrounding the figure is the embossed inscription “AM I NOT A MAN AND A BROTHER?” The reverse of the medallion is marked “Wedgwood Made in England” and “C-76 BMW.” The medallion is mounted on green felt and housed within a small gilt frame.
This image was the official seal for the Committee for the Abolition of the Slave Trade, a British abolitionist group founded in London in 1787. Josiah Wedgwood, the pottery manufacturer, became of member of the Committee on August 27, 1787, and his firm produced small medallions modeled by William Hackwood bearing the seal to be sold and distributed for free to promote the cause. Produced in large quantities, these small medallions were often incorporated into personal adornment, and could be found on jewelry, hair ornaments, snuff boxes, and shoe buckles. In 1807 the British Parliament voted to abolish the slave trade.
This image was the official seal for the Committee for the Abolition of the Slave Trade, a British abolitionist group founded in London in 1787. Josiah Wedgwood, the pottery manufacturer, became of member of the Committee on August 27, 1787, and his firm produced small medallions modeled by William Hackwood bearing the seal to be sold and distributed for free to promote the cause. Produced in large quantities, these small medallions were often incorporated into personal adornment, and could be found on jewelry, hair ornaments, snuff boxes, and shoe buckles. In 1807 the British Parliament voted to abolish the slave trade.
Cultural Origin
English
Medium
Jasperware
Extent
medallion: 1.25" x 1.125"|frame: 5.25" x 4.75"
Collection
Source
Bequest of Mr. Francis J. Connell, 1988.
Identifier
PSNC.7384
For more information about this item, please contact its owning institution.