Description
Wedgwood Egyptian Collection Black Jasper Round Trinket Box with Ankhesenamun Relief – England 1978
This Wedgwood Egyptian Collection round trinket box in black jasper with terracotta relief decoration is a striking circular form from the celebrated 1978 Egyptian revival series. The lid centers on a finely modeled profile of Ankhesenamun, the queen of Tutankhamun, surrounded by a ring of raised terracotta rosettes. Along the side, a winged scarab motif continues the Egyptian iconography and gives the piece visual interest from multiple angles.
The contrast between the deep black jasper body and warm terracotta relief creates a strong sculptural effect. Rather than relying on painted decoration, Wedgwood used applied relief ornament to create depth, shadow, and texture across the surface. The result is compact but visually powerful, with the portrait, rosettes, and side decoration working together as a complete Egyptian revival composition.
The collection is documented within the original Wedgwood Egyptian Collection brochure (1978), which outlines the materials, design themes, and structure of the series. This example reflects the black jasper and terracotta side of the collection, distinct from the black basalt pieces decorated with gilt motifs.
Ankhesenamun and the Wedgwood Egyptian Collection
Ankhesenamun remains one of the most recognizable figures associated with the world of Tutankhamun. Her profile appears here in a formal Egyptian-inspired pose, with an elaborate headdress and finely detailed linear relief. Wedgwood adapted the ancient source material through its own neoclassical design language, giving the figure a restrained and elegant character rather than a theatrical one.
The rosettes around the lid create a decorative border that frames the portrait, while the winged scarab on the side introduces a symbol long associated with protection, rebirth, and eternity in Egyptian art. This combination of royal portraiture and symbolic ornament makes the box especially appealing within the series.
Material and Craftsmanship
This piece is black jasper with applied terracotta relief decoration. The material distinction is important within the Egyptian Collection: terracotta relief pieces such as this belong to the jasperware group, while the gilt-decorated black pieces are generally described as black basalt.
The relief work remains crisp and well defined, particularly in the profile, headdress, rosettes, and winged side motif. The dark ground gives the terracotta ornament strong contrast and allows the details to read clearly even at a small scale.
Condition
The box is in good vintage condition. No major chips, cracks, or restoration were observed. The terracotta relief decoration appears intact and presents well.
The lid sits properly but has slight movement when seated, approximately up to 0.25 inch. This is consistent with what is often seen on similar Wedgwood lidded forms from the period and does not affect display. The underside is marked Wedgwood, Made in England, and 78.
