Description
A Hand-Gilded Black Basalt Piece from the Wedgwood Egyptian Collection
This Wedgwood Egyptian Collection black basalt gilt winged sphinx round box from 1979 belongs to the hand-gilded group within the series and reflects the refined decorative approach of the collection. Wedgwood combined its historic black basalt body with hand-applied gold decoration in this series.
The matte black surface creates a strong contrast with the gilded motif. The result feels restrained but striking, with the decoration standing out clearly against the depth of the basalt. The collection is documented within the original Wedgwood Egyptian Collection brochure (1978), which outlines the materials, design themes, and structure of the series.
Winged Sphinx Motif in Gilded Relief
The lid features a finely modeled winged sphinx, rendered in gold. The figure combines human, animal, and mythological elements, echoing the hybrid forms found in Egyptian and classical decorative traditions.
Wedgwood used these motifs deliberately. They translate ancient imagery into a format suited to refined relief decoration. The gilding remains well-defined, with light wear on the highest points consistent with age.
Black Basalt and Wedgwood Craftsmanship
Wedgwood developed black basalt in the 18th century to echo the appearance of ancient ceramics and metalwork. The material remains unglazed, giving it a soft matte finish and a dense, refined feel.
In this piece, the circular form softens the composition. The curved edge frames the central motif and creates a balanced contrast between smooth geometry and detailed ornament.
A Round Variation Within the Egyptian Collection
This example represents the round variation within Wedgwood’s hand-gilded basalt boxes. While similar in decoration to square forms from the same collection, the circular profile creates a different visual rhythm and display presence.
These variations allowed Wedgwood to build a cohesive series while offering subtle differences in form and proportion.
Marks and Authenticity
The underside bears the impressed WEDGWOOD / MADE IN ENGLAND mark along with the 1979 date stamp, confirming production within the original Egyptian Collection period.
Additional workshop marks appear, consistent with Wedgwood production during this time.
Collectible Wedgwood Egyptian Revival Design
This box belongs to the black basalt group of the Egyptian Collection, distinct from the jasperware pieces produced in primrose and terracotta. The use of hand-applied gilding places it within the more decorative and formal group of objects in the series.
Collectors value these boxes for their material contrast, symbolic imagery, and connection to a defined Wedgwood collection.
