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LOT 0532
Large Egyptian Steatite Scarab
SECOND INTERMEDIATE PERIOD–NEW KINGDOM, CIRCA 1600-1069 B.C.
1 3/8 in. (13.3 grams, 34 mm).
Modelled body of a beetle with detailed carapace and legs; the underside carved with a border enclosing the depictions of an advancing lion, a crocodile below, with a fish behind, and a nefer sign in front.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Cf. Petrie, W.M.F., Button and Design Scarabs, London, 1925, pl. XIV, nos. 880, for a scarab depicting a lion above a crocodile; Ben-Tor, D., The Scarab: A Reflection of Ancient Egypt, Tel Aviv, 1993, p. 32, for a discussion of this scarab design type.
FootnotesIt is believed that the lion symbolised the king and his strength in overcoming dangerous forces.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Second Intermediate Period, circa 1660-1500 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
Comprising a bronze D-shaped finger ring, the bezel formed by a faience scarab with hieroglyphs and running scrolls to the underside. 5.15 grams, 38.41 mm overall, 26.58 mm internal diameter
Ex London, UK, art market, 1990s. 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. -
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Acquired on the UK art market during the late 20th century. From the private collection of David King (1940-2024), Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, UK. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Throughout ancient Egyptian mythology, lion-headed goddesses played a significant role in the religious beliefs of the people. These goddesses, including Sekhmet, Wadjet, and Bastet, were revered as powerful and fierce protectors. Their presence was believed to ward off evil and safeguard the people from harm. -
Egyptian Black Stone Scarab in Gilt Bronze Memorial Locket
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Haematite scarab with carapace and mouth, mounted in the centre of a 19th century memorial locket with glazed inner chamber, obverse with six agate cabochons in cells and applied filigree around the central cell mimicking legs. 24.95 grams, 53 mm
From a 19th century collection based on the locket. Acquired on the UK art market. From the collection of G.M.R.H., London, UK. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
