Scarab (base)

A scarab is an ancient Egyptian amulet in the form of a dung beetle, symbolic of regeneration. As time went on, scarabs developed into use as personal seals. This example of glazed steatite dates from around 1937 to 1641 BC.

This picture shows the base of the scarab. It has been engraved with C and S coils around a central knot.

Carvings on the bases of scarabs include spiral designs, officials' names, friendly wishes or mottoes referring to places or gods. Historically, the most valuable scarabs are those which have royal names. These appear from the 11th Dynasty to the Late Period.

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Online ID:	000-100-104-605-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1965.146
Date:	Middle Kingdom, 12th - 13th Dynasty Middle Kingdom: 12th or 13th Dynasty (around 1937 to 1641 BC)
Material:
Dimensions:	0.81" L
What:	Scarab
Subject:	Scarabs
Who:
Where:	Ancient Egypt
Event:
Description:	Scarab in blue-green glazed steatite, with C and S coils engraved on the base: Ancient Egyptian, Middle Kingdom, 12th - 13th Dynasty
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