Egyptian Blue Faience Scarab

Object Description

An Egyptian scarab moulded from vivid Egyptian blue faience, with hieroglyphs to the reverse. The obverse features simple detailing, to depict the head and humeral callosities. The reverse features recognisable hieroglyphs in a symmetrical pattern, across two registers. In each register there is an ‘ankh’ sign to the centre, flanked on either side by a floral ‘sedge’ sign. It was common for the late Middle Kingdom scarabs to combine symbols, without a specific meaning, used instead for their apotropaic value.

The scarab has been pierced longitudinally for suspension.

Date: Circa 1700–1550 BC
Period: Late Middle Kingdom – Second Intermediate Period

Object History

Ex private UK collection, Mr. DP, formerly acquired from a London dealership, BL, from 2004-2012.

Object Condition

Very fine condition to the obverse and reverse. Vivid Egyptian blue coloured faience. Chip to the reverse near the suspension hole.

Object Details