Object Description
A finely carved Egyptian steatite scarab, with hieroglyphs to the reverse. The amulet features a detailed obverse, incised to depict the detailed clypeus and head, whilst single inscribed lines have been used to indicate the prothorax and elytra. The feet have also been depicted with diagonal grooves. The reverse features a deeply incised scene; with a large central, kneeling figure. His arms are raised in adoration, as he prostrates towards an obelisk to his right. The kneeling figure is a representation of the king. Beneath him is a ‘neb’ basket sign. Above are two further hieroglyphs. To the right is a small ‘nfr’ sign, which translates as ‘good’. To the left are two short horizontal lines. Combined, the signs refer to a commonly used epithet; ‘Perfect god, lord of the two lands’. This scarab is dedicated to the sun-god Ra, reiterated by the inclusion of the obelisk. The scarab is pierced for suspension.
Date: Circa 1292-1069 BC
Period: New Kingdom Period, Ramesside Period