Wedgwood Jasperware Josiah Wedgwood Limited Edition Medallion

This listing is for an original Wedgwood Jasperware commemorative medallion portraying Josiah Wedgwood, presented in its fitted display case. The finely modelled oval portrait plaque is executed in the classic Wedgwood pale blue and white colourway, measuring approximately 11 cm by 8 cm, and is offered in very good condition throughout with only light, age-appropriate wear to the case interior.

The front of the medallion shows a crisply detailed left‑facing profile bust of Josiah Wedgwood in high relief, wearing 18th‑century dress. The white relief stands out clearly against the matte blue ground, framed by a moulded white border with a laurel and berry wreath design – a traditional neoclassical motif closely associated with Wedgwood’s Jasperware from the late 18th century onwards. The modelling displays the sharp definition and silky, unglazed surface that collectors look for in good quality Jasper pieces.

The reverse is fully marked in gilt, reading: “JOSIAH WEDGWOOD F.R.S. 1730–1795. To commemorate the bicentenary of the invention and perfection of Jasper in 1774. Limited edition of 1000. Number 344.” Below this text is the impressed “WEDGWOOD MADE IN ENGLAND” mark with the date code “74”, confirming manufacture in 1974 to coincide with the bicentenary of Wedgwood’s Jasper body. The individual edition number reinforces the collectible nature of the piece, and low‑numbered, intact examples remain particularly desirable to collectors of 20th‑century Wedgwood.

The medallion is housed in its original dark blue, leatherette-covered hinged case, the lid decorated with the gilt Wedgwood vase emblem and company name. Inside, the lid is lined with a champagne satin bearing the printed Wedgwood logo, while the base is fitted with a deep blue velvet pad contoured to hold the medallion securely. Although the satin lining shows some rippling and minor age spotting, the case is structurally sound and closes properly, offering both protection and an attractive presentation if the piece is to be displayed open. The survival of the original case adds to the completeness and appeal of the set, particularly for gift-giving or resale.

A small integral lug to the back of the medallion allows for it to be hung as a wall plaque if desired, or it can be left in the case as a cabinet display piece. The size (approximately 11 cm high by 8 cm wide) makes it ideal for grouping with other Jasper portrait medallions or placing in a small wall arrangement. The restrained colour palette and neoclassical styling, coupled with the historical subject, typify Wedgwood’s enduring aesthetic and make this medallion suitable for both traditional and more contemporary interiors.

Condition overall is very good: the Jasperware medallion itself appears free from chips, cracks or restoration, with the relief remaining clean and sharply defined. Any slight surface marks or tiny firing specks are consistent with Wedgwood’s hand-finished production and do not detract from display. The outer case shows light handling wear and some surface rubbing, but retains a pleasing appearance and sound hinge. Collectors of Wedgwood, British ceramics, or commemorative portrait medallions will appreciate this authenticated, limited-edition Jasperware piece that directly celebrates the firm’s most important technical innovation.