Wedgwood Jasper Ware

18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant


18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant

18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant   18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant
This is an exceedingly rare, tiny and exceptionally modelled portrait cameo plaque of slate blue jasper that was produced during the Josiah Wedgwood and Thomas Bentley of Etruria period of 1775 to 1780. This tiny oval medallion has a white lapidary polished bevelled and laminated edge with moulded and applied white relief decoration of the bust of Admiral Augustus Keppel in profile to the right. Oval in shape and set within in its original period (untested) gilt metal frame with suspension loop. We believe this to be a Wedgwood trial cameo of Keppel, see the Felix Joseph collection of 18th century Jasperware for the finished cameo version of Keppel, donated to Nottingham Castle and Museum in 1897. See also similar examples of Benjamin Franklin held at The British Museum, London and a trial piece titled A Mourning Woman With Urn set at The V and A Museum, London.

Our Keppel piece is not inscribed or impressed, but see the V and A trial example above that is also not inscribed or impressed. The V and A also holds a 1779 period trial brown stoneware right facing profile of Keppel by Wedgwood and Bentley. During the 18th century portrait medallions of current rich, famous historical, royal and political celebrities were all the rage.

He was involved in controversy after his famous dispute with Sir Hugh Palliser during the American Revolution. Keppel was court martialled but was later acquitted. During the final years of the American Revolutionary War Keppel served as First Lord of the Admiralty. Size: In frame 1.25" by 11/16" (27 mm by 24 mm), actual medallion a teeny 1" by 0.75" (22 mm by 19 mm). Condition: The original chased frame we is untested, we therefore class it is as gilt metal. There looks to have been a compartment to the rear of the pendant now missing. There is a small polished nick to the Jasper body, seen to the right laminated edge at 3 o'clock. Please note the items shown in the final image are not included.

This is a stunning example of an important 18th century naval admiral; it is perfect for your early Wedgwood or militaria collection or to adorn the wall of a very special doll's house. The item "18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant" is in sale since Sunday, November 19, 2017. This item is in the category "Jewellery & Watches\Vintage & Antique Jewellery\Vintage Fine Jewellery\Pre-1837". The seller is "thechapterhouse" and is located in DURSLEY.

This item can be shipped worldwide.
  1. Type: Pendant/ Locket
  2. Designer: Wedgwood and Bentley
  3. Country/Region of Manufacture: United Kingdom

18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant   18th Century Miniature Wedgwood and Bentley Blue Jasperware Portrait Pendant