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 ivory probably dates from the Late Period (between 664 and 337 BC).

This picture shows the front of the scarab. The front and rear legs of the beetle are only indicated on the underside. There is a perforated central lug.

Scarabs were often placed within the wrappings of a mummy or included in the items of personal ornament that would adorn the deceased. They ensured the deceased's resurrection. Some scarabs were also worn by people to protect them or bring them luck.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-104-581-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  A.1965.189
• Date: Probably Late Period
  Probably Late Period (between 664 and 337 BC)
  
• Material:
• Dimensions: 1.13" L
  
• What:
• Subject: Scarabs
  
• Who:
• Where: Ancient Egypt
  
• Event:
• Description: Scarab, ivory, with central lug: Ancient Egyptian, probably Late Period
  
• References:
• Translations:
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