Scarab

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 945 to 715 BC.

This picture shows the base of the scarab. It has been engraved with the name of Shoshenk I, ruler around 945 to 924 BC.

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.

Record details

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Online ID:	000-100-104-588-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1965.140
Date:	3rd Intermediate Period, 22nd Dynasty 3rd Intermediate Period: 22nd Dynasty (around 945 to 715 BC)
Material:
Dimensions:	0.63" L
What:
Subject:	Scarabs
Who:	Shoshenk I
Where:	Ancient Egypt
Event:
Description:	Scarab in faded green glazed steatite, engraved on the base with the prenomen of Shoshenk I: Ancient Egyptian, 3rd Intermediate Period, 22nd Dynasty
References:
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