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Details
LOT 0513
Egyptian Hardstone Heart Scarab
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C.
1 1/4 in. (16.6 grams, 33 mm).
With stylised geometric ribbed carapace and underside.
Provenance
From an early 20th century collection.
Ex London, UK, gallery.
From a private UK collection
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Literature
Cf. Tinius, I., Altägypten in Braunschweig. Die Sammlungen des Herzog Anton Ulrich-Museums und des Städtischen Museums, Wiesbaden, 2011, 179, no. 356, for a scarab with similar body modelling.
Footnotes
The scarab amulet was one of ancient Egypt’s most widespread symbols, signifying rebirth, transformation, and protection. Modelled on the dung beetle associated with the sun god Khepri—believed to roll the sun across the sky—it symbolised the cycle of life and renewal. Widely used from the early Middle Kingdom onwards, scarabs served as funerary amulets (as here), personal charms, and seals, often inscribed with prayers or names. They reflect both spiritual beliefs and daily life in ancient Egypt.
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LOT 0513
Egyptian Hardstone Heart Scarab
Estimate £500 - 700€580 - 810 (for guidance only)$680 - 950 (for guidance only)
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