Scarab (front)

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 steatite is from Gaza in Palestine. It dates from the 2nd Intermediate Period or early New Kingdom (around 1759 to 1295 BC).

This picture shows the front of the scarab. The carving outlines the features of the dung beetle.

The people in the eastern delta of Egypt and southern Palestine had close links with each other, both personal and trading. In addition, Egypt provided refuge to Palestinians in times of trouble. Many servants and labourers in Egypt came from Palestine and Syria.

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Online ID:	000-100-104-599-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1938.266
Date:	2nd Intermediate Period 2nd Intermediate Period or early New Kingdom (around 1759 to 1295 BC)
Material:
Dimensions:	0.50" L
What:	Scarab
Subject:	Scarabs
Who:
Where:	Ancient Egypt, Gaza Anthedon
Event:
Description:	Scarab, steatite, incised on base with hieroglyphic motif imitating a royal name: Palestinian, from Gaza, Ancient Egyptian, 2nd Intermediate Period or early New Kingdom
References:
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