Mastery of Design: A Jasperware Plaque of Queen Charlotte, 1780

Queen Charlotte
Jasperware Plaque, 1780-1800
The Victoria & Albert Museum

The simplicity and beauty of jasperware has been beloved for centuries. The composition of white figures on the famed Wedgewood blue background makes for the perfect setting for a portrait in silhouette. Here, we see such perfection.


This plaque of blue jasper-dip shows a white bust relief of Queen Charlotte, consort of George III. She is seen in profile to the left and wears a low-necked dress and ermine cloak. The oval portrait is set in a gilt metal frame and inscribed below with “Q. CHARLOTTE.” Of course, it is the work of Josiah Wedgwood & Sons and dates between 1780 and 1800.