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 glazed steatite dates from around 1636 to 1528 BC.

This picture shows the base of the scarab. It has been incised with the name of king Sheshi.

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: 000-100-104-585-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  A.1965.114
• Date: 2nd Intermediate Period, 15th Dynasty
  2nd Intermediate Period: 15th Dynasty (around 1636 to 1528 BC)
  
• Material: Scarab
  
• Dimensions: 0.69" L
  
• What: Scarab
  
• Subject: Scarabs
  
• Who: Sheshi
  
• Where: Ancient Egypt
  
• Event:
• Description: Scarab, green-glazed steatite, incised on the base with the name (nomen) of king Sheshi: Ancient Egyptian, 2nd Intermediate Period, 15th Dynasty
  
• References:
• Translations:
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