Early Wedgwood Black Basalt Medallion Plaque, Framed, Attributed to Solon

Exquisite early Black Basalt medallion plaque, attributed to Wedgwood and Solon, beautifully mounted in a later frame – a refined and rare decorative piece for the serious collector.

This elegant black basalt medallion is a superb example of early Wedgwood-style production, presented in a tasteful frame ready for wall display. The plaque itself is unmarked, as is characteristic of some early pieces, but it closely corresponds in style, material, and execution to documented Wedgwood black basalt medallions from the same period, including examples bearing an early Wedgwood mark from the same original lot. The sculptural quality and classical refinement strongly suggest the hand or influence of Marc-Louis (Louis) Solon, one of the most celebrated modellers associated with Wedgwood and fine English ceramics.

Key Features:

• Material: Fine black basalt ceramic medallion
• Attribution: Early Wedgwood production (unmarked – please judge for yourself)
• Design: Classical medallion in crisp low relief, attributed to Solon
• Presentation: Professionally framed, ready to hang or display
• Colour: Deep matte black, ideal for both traditional and contemporary interiors
• Category: Collectables > Decorative Collectables > Plaques & Signs
• Condition: Good vintage condition (please see photographs)

About Black Basalt & Wedgwood

Black basalt is one of the most iconic and desirable bodies associated with Wedgwood, prized for its dense, silky, jet-black surface and its ability to take sharply defined relief decoration. Early black basalt medallions were often produced in relatively small numbers and, in the earliest phases, not all pieces were consistently marked. For this reason, unmarked examples with the correct body, style, and modelling are highly sought after by collectors of Georgian and Victorian ceramics and by connoisseurs of Wedgwood’s early output.

This particular medallion displays the refined modelling and classical sensibility that made Wedgwood’s black basalt world-famous. The sculpted profile and crisp detail are beautifully enhanced by the velvety black body, making it a striking focal point in any curated interior.

Attribution & Provenance Notes

The plaque offered here is unmarked. However, it was acquired as part of a lot which included another, closely related piece bearing an early Wedgwood mark in the same style and material. Photographs of that companion piece are shown at the end of the image set for reference only and are not included in this listing. They are provided to help illustrate the stylistic and material similarities that support the attribution to early Wedgwood production and to the circle of Solon.

As with all unmarked ceramics, the final assessment must rest with the buyer. Please review the photographs carefully and make your own judgment regarding attribution. The piece is offered in good faith as an early unmarked example in the Wedgwood tradition, with strong stylistic and material indicators consistent with that description.

Condition

The medallion and frame are in good overall condition for their age. The black basalt shows no obvious cracks or major damage visible under normal inspection. Minor age-related wear, light surface marks, or slight rubbing to high points may be present, as is entirely typical of antique ceramic plaques. The frame shows normal signs of age and handling but is perfectly suitable for immediate display. Please consult all photographs, as they form an important part of the description.

Display & Interior Use

This framed black basalt medallion is an exceptionally versatile decorative object. Its restrained black palette and classical relief make it easy to incorporate into many interiors:

• Perfect as a focal point in a gallery wall of antique prints and plaques
• Beautiful above a fireplace, on a bookcase, or in a study or library
• Ideal for collectors of Wedgwood, Solon, or fine English ceramics
• Equally at home in Georgian, Regency, Victorian, or modern minimalist schemes

Whether you are a seasoned Wedgwood collector, a lover of classical design, or an interior decorator seeking a refined statement piece, this early black basalt medallion offers both decorative impact and historical interest.

Dimensions

Please refer to the photographs and any listed measurements in the item specifics for exact dimensions. The plaque is framed and ready for immediate hanging or display on arrival.

Authenticity & Buyer Confidence

I take care to describe each piece accurately and to provide clear, high-resolution images so that you can buy with confidence. The attribution to early Wedgwood and Solon is based on comparison with marked examples and expert reference, but because this plaque is unmarked, it is sold strictly as “attributed” rather than guaranteed. Collectors familiar with early Wedgwood black basalt will recognise the quality and character of the work.

Questions Welcome

If you would like additional photographs, close-ups, or clarification on any detail, please feel free to get in touch before purchasing. I am happy to assist serious buyers and collectors with any further information you may require.

Add this rare early black basalt medallion, attributed to Wedgwood and Solon, to your collection and enjoy a piece of refined ceramic history on your wall.