Rare rolled paper decorated traveling writing box, fitted with a 'slave' medallion, Wedgwood, c.1787. The interior of the box is fitted for writing tools and retains its original salmon colored paper. England, c.1790; noteper Lotus Stack, Textile curator,'interior paper' is actually silk fabric.

Writing box with Wedgwood abolitionist medallion, c. 1790

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The leading manufacturer of ceramics in Staffordshire, Josiah Wedgwood was also a founding member of the Society for the Abolition of the Slave Trade in England. In 1787 he directed his chief modeler, William Hackwood, to create a medallion depicting a kneeling African slave in chains. Adopted as the seal of the Society, the medallions were distributed free of charge to supporters of the abolitionist movement in Europe and America.

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Details
Title
Writing box with Wedgwood abolitionist medallion
Artist Life
(Stoke-on-Trent, England)
Role
Designer
Accession Number
95.19
Curator Approved

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Rare rolled paper decorated traveling writing box, fitted with a 'slave' medallion, Wedgwood, c.1787. The interior of the box is fitted for writing tools and retains its original salmon colored paper. England, c.1790; noteper Lotus Stack, Textile curator,'interior paper' is actually silk fabric.