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Pair Wedgwood Egyptian Revival Black Basalt Sphinxes Made 18th Century, England
About the Item
These stunning Wedgwood black basalt sphinxes are a true masterpiece of Wedgwood craftsmanship and artistry. These mythical creatures are a sight to behold with their majestic woman's head, mighty lion's body, and elegant wings.
Each sphinx sits atop a raised rectangular base, adorned with a geometric design of circles and fleur-de-lis.
Each sphinx features a 'lotus flower' nozzle to hold candles, adding a touch of whimsy and charm.
Made in the eighteenth century, circa 1785, these sphinxes showcase Wedgwood's exceptional attention to detail and dedication to quality. The underside of each sphinx is marked with an impressed "Wedgwood" signature in lowercase letters. With a height of 10.2", a depth of 7", and a width of 3.6", these sphinxes are truly imposing in size and presence. In excellent condition, this pair is a rare and highly coveted find for collectors of Wedgwood black basalt.
Reference: "The Dictionary of Wedgwood" R Reilly and G Savage pg 323.
Dimensions: 10.2" height x 7" deep x 3.6" wide
Condition: Excellent with tiny edge chips invisibly restored
Price: $6,600
Background of Wedgwood black basalt:
In the mid-18th century, Josiah Wedgwood created black stoneware, which he named "Black Basalt," as it resembled Egyptian basalt stone.
- Creator:Wedgwood (Maker)
- Dimensions:Height: 10.2 in (25.91 cm)Width: 3.6 in (9.15 cm)Depth: 6.25 in (15.88 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 2
- Style:Egyptian Revival (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:Stoneware,Molded
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1785
- Condition:tiny edge chips invisibly restored.
- Seller Location:Katonah, NY
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU866524055062
Wedgwood
Arguably the most celebrated of all English ceramics makers, Wedgwood was founded in 1759 by Staffordshire potter Josiah Wedgwood (1730–95). The company is famed for its Jasperware — molded Neoclassical stoneware vases, plates and other pieces, inspired by ancient cameo glass, featuring white figures, scenes and decorative elements set in relief on a matte colored background. The best-known background hue is light blue, but Wedgwood’s iconic silhouettes also appear on green, lilac, yellow, black and even white grounds. Some pieces use three or more colors.
The Wedgwood firm first came to prominence for its tableware, which quickly gained favor in aristocratic households throughout Britain and Europe. In 1765, Wedgwood was commissioned to create a cream-colored earthenware service for Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III. The queen was so thrilled with her new china that Wedgwood was given permission to call himself “Potter to Her Majesty,” and the decorative style became known as Queen’s Ware. Not to be outdone, Catherine the Great of Russia commissioned her own set of Wedgwood china in 1773. Nearly 200 years later, the firm created a 1,200-piece service for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. In recent years, leading designers including Jasper Conran and Vera Wang have collaborated with Wedgwood — in the tradition of such distinguished 18th century artists such as the painter George Stubbs and metalsmith Matthew Boulton.
From plates and other dinnerware to decorative items like urns, cachepots and candlesticks, Wedgwood designs lend a traditional air to Anglophile interiors. And even if you have to make your own tea, you may find it comforting to sip it from a delicate cup that was manufactured in the same Stoke-on-Trent kiln that produced Her Majesty’s tea service. Be sure to keep your pinky raised.
About the Seller
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Established in 1962
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422 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Katonah, NY
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 30 days of delivery.
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