Description
Wedgwood Egyptian Collection Trophy Plate Ankhesenamun No.140
A striking Wedgwood Egyptian Collection “Ankhesenamun – Queen of Tutankhamun” trophy plate, issued in 1978in a limited edition of 500, this example numbered 140.
Executed in the highly attractive and less frequently encountered terracotta relief on primrose jasperware, this colorway offers a refined and luminous contrast that emphasizes the sculptural precision of Wedgwood’s relief work. Compared to the more commonly seen black basalt variants, the primrose ground allows the design to read with greater softness and classical balance.
At the center, a finely rendered profile of Queen Ankhesenamun, wife of Tutankhamun, is derived from imagery found on the golden shrine discovered within the young pharaoh’s tomb. Surrounding the portrait are concentric bands of Egyptian motifs, including stylized deities, sacred animals, and symbolic forms, all executed in crisp low relief characteristic of Wedgwood’s jasperware.
The plate is produced in the traditional Wedgwood “trophy plate” form, a historic decorative format defined by a central relief medallion and radiating ornamental bands. In Wedgwood terminology, “trophy” refers to a classical decorative composition rather than function—this is a display piece intended for cabinet presentation or wall display rather than table use.
Created during the resurgence of interest in ancient Egypt following the major Tutankhamun exhibitions of the 1970s, the Wedgwood Egyptian Collection represents a distinctive fusion of ancient Egyptian imagery and Wedgwood’s long-established neoclassical design tradition.
The reverse bears the official Egyptian Collection inscription and edition number, along with the impressed Wedgwood mark and date for 1978, confirming authenticity and limited production.
A highly decorative and increasingly sought-after example from the Wedgwood Egyptian Collection, particularly desirable in this colorway and early edition number.
This piece is documented within the original Wedgwood Egyptian Collection brochure (1978), which outlines the materials, design themes, and structure of the series.
Condition
Excellent vintage condition.
No chips, cracks, or repairs observed. Relief remains crisp and well preserved. Minor wear consistent with careful display.
