A historic lesbian icon

From the series Queer stories
Secretary The Netherlands, c. 1780-1795, plaques: Wedgwood, c. 1780-1790, oak, veneered with sycamore and satinwood, biscuit stoneware

This writing desk is decorated with large jasperware ceramic plaquettes that mimic carved stone. The figures shown include Amor and Psyche, and also Sappho. Who was Sappho, and why is she considered a lesbian icon?