Phoenician-Egyptian Steatite Scarab Amulet with Elaborate Gold Mount

GBP 495.00

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Object Description

An ancient Phoenician-Egyptian steatite scarab encased in an elaborate gold mount with a garnet stone. To the top, the mount presents a hammered-dot design, now with sections missing. At the centre a garnet inset enriches the piece and is framed with gold granules sporadically placed. The sides are decorated with a band of larger gold granules set between two encircling ridges. The reverse of the scarab displays parts of the gold mount used to hold the scarab beetle in place however, some of the edges are now chipped away. The flat side of the steatite scarab presents the hieroglyph of a large scarab beetle (ḫpr, kheper) meaning being/form. The piece has been perforated longitudinally for suspension and is further embellished with a ring of gold granules on either end of the perforation.

Date: Circa 6th-4th Century BC

Object History

Ex. Japanese gentleman’s (deceased) collection, 1970-2010.

Object Condition

Good condition. The gold mount on both sides has been chipped, and with parts of the scarab’s obverse exposed. A few of the granules display dents or piercings.Some wear and discolouration to the surface of the scarab and edges of the mount, and minor damage to some of the larger granules.

Object Details

  • dimensions
    W:1.6 x H:1.2 x D:2.1 centimeters

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

Telephone
+44 (0)208 364 4565
Mobile
+44 (0)7833231322
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Email

Dealer Location

The Gallery
Trent Park Equestrian Centre
Eastpole Farm House, Bramley Road
Oakwood, N14 4UW, United Kingdom

St James's Ancient Art
10 Charles II Street, Ground Floor
St James
London
SW1Y 4AA

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