The Freedom Centrepiece by Jocelyn Burton, 2007

This silver piece is made to look like a cowry sea shell. These shells were used in West Africa as money, including in the slave trade. The shape also represents a ship's sail in the wind, moving us forwards to a better future. This was specially made in 2007 to remember the end of the British slave trade 200 years ago. Many people fought for the end of this terrible trade, including William Wilberforce who was born in Hull. In 2006 Hull Museums commissioned Jocelyn Burton to produce a silver centrepiece. This was part of the commemorative events for the bi-centenary of the abolition of the slave trade in 2007. This was generously funded by the Alderman Alec-Smith Fund and the Wilberforce 2007 Programme. Three leading silversmiths were commissioned to produce a design and a panel selected Burton's as the winning one. Jocelyn's winning design was inspired by a quote from William Wilberforce. On 12th May 1789 Wilberforce delivered his speech to the House of Commons calling for the Total Abolition of Slavery. He declared, 'I would never rest...I found myself impelled to go boldly forward.' The base of the design is ebony, with silver chasing representing the four elements: earth, water, fire and air. This represents the universe which all of humankind belongs to. The ebony and the cowry shell are also representative of West Africa. Beneath this is a design of broken chains, representing the abolition of the slave trade. The names around the base recall famous freedom fighters throughout history. The three crowns on the top of the piece represent Hull and its connection to this struggle.