Description
Elizabeth Arden Treasures of the Pharaohs Ibis Heron Trinket Box 1982
This vintage Elizabeth Arden Ibis Heron Trinket Box was issued as part of the celebrated Treasures of the Pharaohscollection introduced for the 1982 Christmas season. Produced exclusively in Japan for Elizabeth Arden, the series transformed cosmetic packaging into decorative art by drawing inspiration from the mythology, symbolism, and visual splendor of ancient Egypt.
Elegant and sculptural, this lidded ceramic box takes the form of a stylized sacred bird with a gracefully curved neck and elongated beak. Richly decorated in turquoise blue, green, red, black, and gold, the design reflects the vibrant colors found in Egyptian wall paintings, jewelry, and decorative arts. More than forty years after its introduction, it remains one of the most visually distinctive pieces from the collection.
The Treasures of the Pharaohs Collection
During the late 1970s and early 1980s, public fascination with ancient Egypt reached new heights. International exhibitions devoted to Tutankhamun and the treasures of the pharaohs attracted millions of visitors and inspired a wave of Egyptian Revival design across fashion, jewelry, home décor, cosmetics, and luxury goods.
Elizabeth Arden embraced this trend with the Treasures of the Pharaohs collection, creating a series of decorative containers inspired by ancient Egyptian animals, deities, and symbols. Rather than producing ordinary cosmetic packaging, the company commissioned collectible ceramic vessels designed to remain on display long after their original contents had been enjoyed.
Today these pieces appeal not only to Elizabeth Arden collectors but also to enthusiasts of Egyptian Revival design, vintage vanity accessories, and decorative ceramics.
Ibis Heron: The Sacred Bird of Ancient Egypt
The Ibis Heron bird depicted here combines characteristics associated with both the ibis and heron traditions of ancient Egyptian art.
The ibis was sacred to Thoth, the Egyptian god of wisdom, writing, learning, and knowledge. The heron was associated with the legendary Bennu bird, one of the most important symbols in Egyptian mythology. According to ancient tradition, the Bennu emerged at the beginning of creation and became associated with renewal, rebirth, and the daily rising of the sun. Its symbolism later influenced the classical legend of the Phoenix.
By drawing upon these ancient themes, Elizabeth Arden transformed a simple vanity accessory into a decorative object rooted in one of history’s most enduring civilizations.
Design and Display Appeal
The elongated form of the Ibis Heron bird gives this piece a refined and elegant profile. Unlike many novelty containers, the design functions equally well as a decorative sculpture. The colorful wing decoration creates a striking contrast against the glossy white ceramic body, while gold accents add warmth and richness to the overall presentation.
The removable lid fits neatly into the lower section, creating a functional trinket box suitable for jewelry, keepsakes, vanity items, or display. Whether placed on a dressing table, bookshelf, or curio cabinet, it immediately attracts attention through its unusual form and colorful decoration.
Condition
The piece is in very good vintage condition. The ceramic body is clean and attractive, and the decoration remains bright with strong color and gilt detail. No obvious chips or cracks were observed. The interior is clean, and the original underside mark remains clear and legible.
As with all vintage collectibles, minor signs of age and handling may be present and should be expected.
