Scarab (base)

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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 schist was found at Saqqara in Egypt. It dates from the Late Period (between 664 and 337 BC).

Like most heart scarabs, it has been carved on its base with chapter 30B from the Book of the Dead. This is a spell which entreats the heart not to testify against the deceased when it comes to be judged by Osiris, the ruler of the gods. The name and titles of the owner were omitted.

The Book of the Dead is a collection of texts containing magic formulas and instructions. First compiled and edited in the 16th century BC, other texts were added over the years. They were written on papyrus or other materials, and buried with the deceased to help in the Afterlife.

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• Online ID: 000-190-002-244-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  A.1974.39
• Date: Late Period (between 664 and 337 BC)
  Probably Late Period
  
• Material: Scarab
  
• Dimensions: 42 mm L
  
• What: Scarab
  
• Subject: Scarabs
  
• Who:
• Where: Ancient Egypt, Saqqara
  
• Event:
• Description: Scarab, grey-green schist, incised on base with image of the heart and heart speel (30B) from the Book of the Dead, name and titles of owner omitted: Ancient Egyptian, Saqqara, Late Period
  
• References:
• Translations:
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