Scarab ring of Sithathoryunet
This superb example of an early ring was formed from gold and the beetle’s wing cases, thorax and head were inlaid with semi-precious stones. In the Middle Kingdom (ca. 2030-1650 B.C.), scarab beetles were the preferred design for a ring bezel as the scarab, a symbol of the sun gold Re, emerged as a popular amulet type. Thin gold wire was used to create a ring’s shank and was attached to the bezel in different ways, although most involved wrapping the ends of the wire neatly around the shank in a tight coil as can be seen here. The underside of this ring’s bezel is uninscribed.
Artwork Details
- Title: Scarab ring of Sithathoryunet
- Period: Middle Kingdom
- Dynasty: Dynasty 12
- Reign: reign of Senwosret II–Amenemhat III
- Date: ca. 1887–1813 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt, Fayum Entrance Area, Lahun, Tomb of Sithathoryunet (BSA Tomb 8), Chamber E, box 1, BSAE excavations 1914
- Medium: Gold, carnelian, lapis lazuli, and turquoise, bedding material
- Dimensions: l. 1.7 cm (11/16 in); w. 1 cm (3/8 in)
- Credit Line: Purchase, Rogers Fund and Henry Walters Gift, 1916
- Object Number: 16.1.24
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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