Darwin Correspondence Project

John Mohin, president of Waterford Wedgwood, writes: ‘The item is part of a collection of portraits produced as medallions in Jasper, the ceramic stoneware body first perfected in 1775. The portrait of Charles Darwin is one of the many subjects that make up a collection of Ancients and Illustrious Moderns which features the philosophers and distinguished figures over the centuries.

‘The portrait medallion in white on pale blue jasper was modelled around 1880 and captures the dignity and character of an eminent Victorian. No doubt the desire to capture his likeness accurately would have been intensified further by the fact that Darwin was of course, a member of the extended Wedgwood family. Charles Darwin was the son of Robert Waring Darwin and Susannah Wedgwood.

‘His maternal grandfather was therefore Josiah Wedgwood I and his father in law was Josiah Wedgwood II who later played a pivotal role in persuading Charles’ father to permit him to embark on his extensive travels.

‘In presenting this exquisite piece, Lord Wedgwood said he hoped this would serve to exemplify the support and encouragement of the entire Wedgwood family for the work on the Darwin Correspondence Project, so important for posterity.’

For a photograph of of the medallion, please click here.