Rare 1770s Wedgwood Black Basalt Medal of Pope Stephanus VIII – Stunning Antique Museum Piece
18th Century Wedgwood & Bentley Collection
This exceptional and seldom-seen black basalt medal features a finely crafted portrait of Pope Stephanus VIII, who served as Bishop of Rome from 939 until his death in 942. His pontificate was marked by significant political strife during the Saeculum obscurum, notably involving Alberic II of Spoleto and King Hugh of Italy.
Details:
Diameter: 1 1/4 inches
Unmarked, typical for series pieces, but engraved with the number 208 on reverse
Listed in the Wedgwood & Bentley Catalogue, 1779
Condition:
Very good condition for its age and historical use
May benefit from cleaning, left to the discretion of the new owner
An incredibly rare and authentic museum-quality piece, perfect for serious collectors of Wedgwood black basalt portrait medallions and historical ceramics.
