Extremely Rare Wedgwood Jasper Medallion of Marie Antoinette after J. B. Nini – Circa 1771 – Museum Quality
An exceptional and rarely seen 18th-century Wedgwood jasper medallion depicting Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, modeled after the famous relief by Jean-Baptiste Nini (1717–1786). This museum-quality piece is a superb tribute to the queen, capturing her profile with exquisite detail and historical significance.
Historical Context:
Jean-Baptiste Nini, an Italian-born sculptor who established his fame in France after 1757, specialized in terracotta medallions of prominent figures. His celebrated relief of Marie Antoinette portrays the queen in regal attire with an elegant coiffure and diadem, embodying 18th-century royal grandeur. This Wedgwood medallion faithfully follows Nini’s renowned design, commemorating the ill-fated queen of France (1755–1793).
Details:
Material: Jasperware
Subject: Profile of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France, with inscription “Maria Antonia. Arc. Aust. Gallorum. Regina”
Size: Approx. 4 inches (10.2 cm) height sight by 3 1/8 inches (8 cm) wide
Markings: Marked “Wedgwood” and “J. B. NINI F. 1771” under truncation as shown
Condition: Good for age and usage, displaying typical wear consistent with historical pieces
Provenance: Mentioned in Wedgwood Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum collections
Museum Quality: Rare example after the original relief, seldom offered for sale, prized by collectors
Rarity & Notes:
This medallion is a museum-grade gem and a highly coveted piece for serious collectors of Wedgwood portraits and 18th-century historical ceramics. Its direct link to Jean-Baptiste Nini’s work and royal subject matter make it a unique and valuable artifact seldom seen on the market.
Perfect for connoisseurs seeking a distinguished and historically significant Wedgwood portrait medallion.
