Description
A Pair Set of Round Wedgwood Egyptian Plaques 4.5cm Black on Terracotta Tutankhamun & Ankhesenamun
This striking pair set of round Wedgwood Egyptian plaques features profile portraits inspired by Tutankhamun and Ankhesenamun, rendered in matte black relief against a warm terracotta jasper ground. Produced in England as part of Wedgwood’s celebrated Egyptian Collection, the plaques reflect the renewed fascination with ancient Egyptian art and archaeology that influenced decorative arts during the late 1970s.
Each plaque presents a finely modeled classical Egyptian profile in Wedgwood’s distinctive jasperware. One depicts the youthful pharaoh Tutankhamun, while the companion plaque portrays Ankhesenamun, his queen. Together, they form a balanced decorative pair with strong sculptural contrast and a distinctly archaeological aesthetic.
The black relief decoration against the terracotta jasper body gives these plaques a more dramatic and architectural appearance than the more common blue jasper versions. Their compact scale makes them highly versatile for display while still retaining strong visual impact.
The Wedgwood Egyptian Collection is documented within the original Wedgwood Egyptian Collection brochure (1978), which outlines the materials, design themes, and structure of the series.
Wedgwood and the Egyptian Revival Movement
Wedgwood has long been associated with neoclassical and archaeological revival design. During the late 1970s, international interest in ancient Egypt surged again following major Tutankhamun exhibitions touring Europe and North America. Wedgwood responded with a sophisticated Egyptian-themed collection inspired by ancient iconography, relief carving, temple decoration, and ceremonial symbolism.
Unlike glossy porcelain, jasperware is an unglazed fine stoneware prized for its soft matte surface and exceptional sculptural detail. These plaques combine contrasting colors and crisp relief modeling to echo the appearance of ancient carved medallions and temple reliefs.
The combination of black and terracotta is particularly effective visually, emphasizing the linear detail of the portraits while enhancing the warmth and depth of the jasper body.
Decorative Appeal and Collectibility
Because of their manageable size, these plaques work beautifully in a cabinet display, small framed arrangement, desk vignette, or grouped with other Egyptian Revival objects. The paired presentation enhances their decorative and collectible appeal, especially for collectors interested in Wedgwood jasperware, Tutankhamun-themed objects, or late 20th century Egyptian Revival design.
The color combination is less commonly encountered than traditional blue jasper examples, helping distinguish the pair within the broader Wedgwood Egyptian series.
Condition
Good vintage condition overall with light age-related wear consistent with careful handling and storage. Relief details remain crisp and well defined. Please review photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
