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 the 2nd Intermediate Period, 15th or 16th Dynasty (around around 1636 to 1528 BC).

This picture shows the base of the scarab. It has been carved with hieroglyphs in two columns identifying the high official Hur. The inscription translates as 'The Chancellor, Sole Companion, Superintendent of the Seal, Hur.'

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:	000-190-002-235-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1965.145
Date:	2nd Intermediate Period, 15th - 16th Dynasty 2nd Intermediate Period: 15th or 16th Dynasty (around 1636 to 1528 BC)
Material:	Inscription: The Chancellor, Sole Companion, Superintendent of the Seal, Hur
Dimensions:	25 mm L
What:	Scarab
Subject:	Scarabs
Who:	Hur, The Chancellor, Sole Companion, Superintendent
Where:	Ancient Egypt
Event:
Description:	Scarab, green-glazed steatite, incised on the base with hieroglyphs naming the high official Hur: Ancient Egyptian, 2nd Intermediate Period, 15th - 16th Dynasty
References:
Translations:
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