Description
A Compact Round Form from the Wedgwood Egyptian Collection
This Wedgwood Egyptian Collection round jasper sphinx box from 1978 reflects the refined decorative language of the series in a softer, more continuous form. Wedgwood used the circular format to contrast with the sharper geometry of the square boxes, while maintaining the same balance between classical material and Egyptian-inspired ornament.
The matte black jasper ground creates a deep, even surface that highlights the applied terracotta relief. 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 Terracotta Relief
The lid features a finely modeled winged sphinx rendered in terracotta jasper relief. The figure combines a human head, lion body, and wings, drawing from Egyptian and classical sources.
Around the body, repeating winged motifs create a continuous decorative band. The relief remains crisp and well-defined, with clean edges and consistent color contrast against the black ground.
Jasper and Wedgwood Craftsmanship
Wedgwood jasperware uses an unglazed, matte ceramic body colored throughout, allowing applied relief decoration to stand out clearly. In this piece, the black ground and terracotta elements form a strong visual contrast typical of the Egyptian Collection.
The circular shape softens the presentation compared to the square versions, giving the piece a more fluid and cohesive appearance. The lid fits securely within the base, maintaining the precise proportions expected from Wedgwood production.
A Small Decorative Object with Versatile Use
At just over 1.5 inches in diameter, this box works as a compact decorative object. It can hold small items such as jewelry or simply serve as part of a grouped display.
Collectors often combine round and square examples to create variation within the Egyptian Collection, highlighting the different forms produced within the same design language.
Marks and Authenticity
The underside bears the impressed WEDGWOOD / MADE IN ENGLAND mark along with the 1979 date stamp, confirming production within the original period of the Egyptian Collection.
Additional workshop marks are present, consistent with Wedgwood manufacturing practices of the time.
Collectible Wedgwood Egyptian Revival Design
This round box represents the jasperware side of the Egyptian Collection, distinct from the black basalt gilt pieces produced alongside it. The use of terracotta relief connects it visually to other jasper items in the series, while the circular form offers a variation less frequently encountered than the square version.
Its combination of material, form, and symbolic decoration makes it a strong addition to any Wedgwood or Egyptian revival collection.
