Description
Wedgwood Gilt Black Basalt Egyptian Revival Trinket Box Falcon Motif 1978
This Wedgwood gilt black basalt trinket box from 1978 reflects the strong Egyptian Revival influence that defined part of Wedgwood’s late 1970s design direction, produced during the renewed international fascination with ancient Egypt following the major Tutankhamun exhibitions of the era.
The hexagonal box is executed in matte black basalt with a restrained and elegant form that allows the gilt decoration to stand out dramatically against the dark surface. The lid features a finely rendered falcon motif beside an Egyptian-style scepter or ceremonial emblem, immediately evoking the iconography of Horus and ancient Egyptian royal symbolism.
Compact in scale yet visually striking, the piece works equally well as a jewelry box, desk accessory, or display object within a collection of Egyptian Revival decorative arts. The collection is documented within the original Wedgwood Egyptian Collection brochure (1978), which outlines the materials, design themes, and structure of the series.
Wedgwood Black Basalt and Egyptian Revival Design
Wedgwood black basalt is one of the company’s most celebrated ceramic bodies, originally developed in the 18th century by Josiah Wedgwood. Unlike glazed ceramics, basalt ware is admired for its dense matte finish and sculptural quality, making it especially suited to neoclassical and archaeological-inspired decoration.
During the late 1970s, Wedgwood revisited Egyptian themes in response to renewed public interest in ancient Egypt. Many pieces from this period incorporated stylized pharaonic imagery, falcons, scarabs, lotus motifs, and hieroglyphic-inspired ornament rendered in gilt against black basalt surfaces.
The falcon seen on this box recalls Horus, one of the most important deities of ancient Egyptian religion, associated with kingship, protection, and the sky. The simplified presentation gives the piece a modernist restraint while still retaining its archaeological inspiration.
Design and Decorative Appeal
The clean hexagonal geometry gives the box an almost architectural appearance, balancing the softness of the matte ceramic with sharp modern lines. The minimal gilt decoration is intentionally understated, allowing the symbolism and silhouette to become the focus.
Because of its scale and finish, the piece displays particularly well grouped with other black basalt or Egyptian Revival objects, though it is equally effective as a standalone accent piece.
The underside carries the impressed Wedgwood mark along with the date mark “78,” confirming production in 1978.
Condition
Good vintage condition with light age-related wear consistent with careful use and storage. The matte black basalt body remains well preserved with no major chips or cracks observed. Minor surface marks and gentle wear to the gilt decoration may be present consistent with age. Please review photographs carefully as they form part of the description.
