Icon of the abolitionist movement. An icon of the abolitionist movement, the medallion shows a kneeling figure and the legend 'Am I not a man and brother?'. Reverse with text 'Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.'

'Wedgwood was a key member of the abolitionist campaign and first produced his famous medallion for the London Abolitionist Committee in 1787. The design proved immediately popular and served as a rallying icon for the campaign, being adapted into many forms' (Hamillton & Blyth).

During the 1790s abolitionist designs were incorporated into many everyday items such as tobacco tins, fob seals, tokens and medals bearing variants of this and similar designs, which were sold presumably to raise funds for the abolitionist cause.

Bronze examples in fine condition, in particular with surface gilding remaining as here, are rare, with variants of this medal being found more usually in a pewter-like white metal.

Gilt bronze medallion by William Hackwood for Josiah Wedgwood, circa 33 mm diameter, fine, with much original gilding remaining, some light wear to extremities, old tone.

Douglas Hamilton & Robert J Blyth (Representing Slavery), 178 & 179.