A commemorative (dated 1962) abolitionist medallion made by Wedgwood in black and white jasperware. The iconic medallion features a detailed depiction of an African slave in shackles. Around the image are the words ‘Am I Not a Man And a Brother’
One the back, the medallion is stamped ‘Wedgwood made in England ‘62, TC’. It is not set to wear as a pedant so is being sold as a collectable artefact that can be set in silver on request. (Please email me for setting information)
Curator’s note
A powerful and complex object, this Wedgwood abolitionist medallion was produced in the late 18th century as part of a pioneering campaign against the transatlantic slave trade. Its imagery, most notably the kneeling enslaved figure and the phrase “Am I Not a Man and a Brother?”, was designed to evoke empathy and mobilise public support, yet today it also raises important questions about representation, agency and the dynamics of abolitionist messaging. As such, the piece sits at the intersection of progress and discomfort, remaining both historically significant and deeply thought-provoking.
To read more on this fascinating artefact, here’s what the V&A has to say.
Details:
Date: Circa 1962.
Size and Weight: 3.3cm by 3cm
3 grams
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with no chips.
A commemorative (dated 1962) abolitionist medallion made by Wedgwood in black and white jasperware. The iconic medallion features a detailed depiction of an African slave in shackles. Around the image are the words ‘Am I Not a Man And a Brother’
One the back, the medallion is stamped ‘Wedgwood made in England ‘62, TC’. It is not set to wear as a pedant so is being sold as a collectable artefact that can be set in silver on request. (Please email me for setting information)
Curator’s note
A powerful and complex object, this Wedgwood abolitionist medallion was produced in the late 18th century as part of a pioneering campaign against the transatlantic slave trade. Its imagery, most notably the kneeling enslaved figure and the phrase “Am I Not a Man and a Brother?”, was designed to evoke empathy and mobilise public support, yet today it also raises important questions about representation, agency and the dynamics of abolitionist messaging. As such, the piece sits at the intersection of progress and discomfort, remaining both historically significant and deeply thought-provoking.
To read more on this fascinating artefact, here’s what the V&A has to say.
Details:
Date: Circa 1962.
Size and Weight: 3.3cm by 3cm
3 grams
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with no chips.
