Scaraboid (obverse)

A scaraboid is a seal amulet used by the ancient Egyptians. It is similar to a scarab, but lacks the naturalistic details of the dung beetle which were portrayed on scarabs. This example of faience from Gurob in Egypt dates from the New Kingdom (around 1539 to 1069 BC).

This picture shows the obverse of the scaraboid. It was carved in relief with a cartouche (an oval which contained a name, here of Menkhepherre) with plumes above and a maat feather on the side.

Egyptian scarabs and scaraboids were carried by trade throughout the Mediterranean and into Mesopotamia. Greek and Etruscan imitations are also known.

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