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Scarab

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from Tanis, Egypt

Postcard of Scarab.
000-190-004-284-C
© National Museums Scotland

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 was found at Tanis in Egypt. It dates from the 2nd Intermediate Period (around 1759 to 1539 BC).

This picture shows the back of the scarab. It was incised with a loop pattern.

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: 000-190-004-284-C
Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
Project: 0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project
Ref: National Museums Scotland  A.1887.81.44
Date: 2nd Intermediate Period
2nd Intermediate Period (around 1759 to 1539 BC)
Material:
Dimensions: 0.56" L
What:
Subject: Scarabs
Who:
Where: Ancient Egypt, Tanis
Event:
Description: Scarab, green-glazed steatite, incised with a loop pattern: Ancient Egyptian, from Tanis, 2nd Intermediate Period
References:
Translations:
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