Description
A Hand-Gilded Black Basalt Piece from the Wedgwood Egyptian Collection
This Wedgwood Egyptian Collection black basalt gilt winged sphinx box from 1978 belongs to the hand-gilded group within the series and reflects the refined decorative approach of the collection. Wedgwood combined its historic basalt body with applied gold decoration.
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. This figure combines elements of Egyptian and classical mythology, with a human head, lion body, and extended wings.
Wedgwood used these hybrid forms deliberately. They echo ancient sources while adapting them into a decorative language suited to relief work. The gilding remains well-defined, with only light wear on the highest points.
Black Basalt and Wedgwood Craftsmanship
Wedgwood developed black basalt in the 18th century to imitate ancient ceramic and bronze surfaces. The material remains unglazed, giving it a soft matte finish and a dense, refined feel.
In this piece, the clean geometry of the square form balances the detailed ornament. The proportions feel deliberate, with the lid fitting neatly into the base and the edges remaining crisp.
A Compact and Versatile Form
The size makes this box easy to place. It works as a small jewelry or trinket box, but also functions as a decorative object within a larger grouping.
Pieces like this often appear alongside other Egyptian Collection items, forming part of a broader decorative series rather than a standalone object.
Marks and Authenticity
The underside shows the impressed WEDGWOOD / MADE IN ENGLAND mark along with the 1978 date stamp. These marks confirm production during the original release of the Egyptian Collection.
Additional workshop marks appear, consistent with Wedgwood manufacturing practice during this period.
Collectible Wedgwood Egyptian Revival Design
This box represents the black basalt side of the Egyptian Collection, distinct from the jasperware pieces in primrose and terracotta. The use of gilding places it within the more formal and decorative group of objects produced at the time.
Collectors value these smaller boxes for their combination of material contrast, symbolic decoration, and connection to a defined Wedgwood series.
