Description
A Larger Jasper Box from the Wedgwood Egyptian Collection
This Wedgwood Egyptian Collection black jasper Tutankhamun box from 1978 reflects the more substantial end of the series, combining scale, relief decoration, and historical motif within a refined ceramic form. Wedgwood developed this collection during a renewed global interest in ancient Egypt, translating iconic imagery into its established jasperware technique.
The matte black jasper ground provides a deep, uniform 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.
Tutankhamun Portrait in Terracotta Relief
The lid features a detailed profile of Tutankhamun, rendered in terracotta jasper relief. The figure is shown in the stylized manner associated with ancient Egyptian art, with a headdress and ornamental collar carefully modeled in low relief.
At each corner, small rosettes add a decorative framing element, balancing the central portrait and reinforcing the structured layout of the lid.
Winged Scarab Motif and Symbolic Decoration
Along the sides, repeating winged scarab motifs create a continuous band of ornament. The scarab, associated with transformation and rebirth in ancient Egyptian symbolism, appears frequently in the visual language of the collection.
Wedgwood used these motifs not as literal reproductions, but as adapted decorative elements suited to relief work and ceramic form.
Jasperware and Wedgwood Craftsmanship
Wedgwood jasperware consists of an unglazed ceramic body colored throughout, allowing applied relief decoration to stand out clearly. In this piece, the contrast between the black ground and terracotta relief creates a strong and consistent visual effect.
The proportions of the box give it a more substantial presence than the smaller examples in the series. The lid sits securely within the base, and the edges remain clean and well-defined.
A Decorative Object with Presence
At approximately 4 inches wide, this box offers both decorative impact and practical use. It functions as a storage piece for small items while also serving as a focal object within a display.
Larger boxes such as this appear less frequently than the smaller forms, making them a natural anchor within a grouped collection of Wedgwood Egyptian pieces.
Marks and Authenticity
The underside bears the impressed WEDGWOOD / MADE IN ENGLAND mark along with the 1978 date stamp, confirming production within the original release of the Egyptian Collection.
Additional impressed marks are present, consistent with Wedgwood manufacturing practices of the period.
Collectible Wedgwood Egyptian Revival Design
This box represents the jasperware side of the Egyptian Collection, distinct from the black basalt gilt pieces produced alongside it. The combination of scale, portrait motif, and symbolic decoration places it among the more visually complete designs within the series.
Collectors value these larger examples for their balance of form, decoration, and connection to a defined Wedgwood collection.
