Egyptian Hardstone Scarab

26TH-30TH DYNASTY, 664-343 B.C.

2 in. (70.2 grams, 49 mm).

Carved in the half-round with detailed mouth, legs and carapace.

Provenance

with Galerie Gunter Phuze, Kunst der Antike, Freiburg, 2000, no.352.
Ex George Broomis.
Private collection, London, UK.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12936-245209.

Literature

Cf. Ben-Tor, D., The Scarab: A Reflection of Ancient Egypt, Tel Aviv, 1993, pp.76-77, for similar examples.

Footnotes

Scarabs were among the most popular amulets of ancient Egypt. Modelled on the dung beetle, they symbolised rebirth, transformation, and the daily journey of the sun god across the sky. From the Middle Kingdom onwards, they were widely used as personal seals, jewellery, and offerings in tombs. The flat underside was often carved with names, prayers, or symbols, while the beetle form on top carried protective power. Scarabs were believed to safeguard the wearer in life and assist the dead in the afterlife, making them both practical objects and deeply spiritual charms.

CONDITION

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LOT 0012