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 (around 1759 to 1539 BC).

This picture shows the base of the scarab. It has been incised with a rope pattern based on a S-scroll.

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:	000-190-004-323-C
Image Rights Holder:	National Museums Scotland
Project:	0098: National Museums Scotland Project description \| View all records in project
Ref:	National Museums Scotland A.1921.1088
Date:	2nd Intermediate Period 2nd Intermediate Period (around 1759 to 1539 BC)
Material:
Dimensions:	0.50" L
What:	Scarab
Subject:	Scarabs
Who:
Where:	Ancient Egypt
Event:
Description:	Scarab in glazed steatite, incised on the base with a rope pattern based on S-scroll: Ancient Egyptian, 2nd Intermediate Period
References:
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