Scarab (front)

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 front of the scarab. It shows only part of the body, with the legs reduced to two parallel encircling lines.

Scarabs were an important symbol in ancient Egyptian religion. They are in the shape of dung beetles, often portrayed naturalistically. Scarabs were symbolic of the enduring human soul. As a result, they often appear with spread wings in art associated with the dead.

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Online ID:	000-190-002-014-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1965.114
Date:	2nd Intermediate Period, 15th Dynasty 2nd Intermediate Period: 15th Dynasty (around 1636 to 1528 BC)
Material:
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:
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