Scarab Inscribed with Hieroglyphs
The majority of design scarabs of the late Middle Kingdom (late Dynasty 12–Dynasty 13, ca. 1850–1640 B.C.) are decorated with symmetric compositions of hieroglyphs and/or scrolls. These signs are not meant to form words but are chosen for their positive, protective meaning.
This scarab is inscribed with a pair of wedjat-eyes, the sign of life (ankh), the sign for good and beautiful (nefer), and the djed-pillar.
This scarab is inscribed with a pair of wedjat-eyes, the sign of life (ankh), the sign for good and beautiful (nefer), and the djed-pillar.
Artwork Details
- Title: Scarab Inscribed with Hieroglyphs
- Period: Middle Kingdom
- Dynasty: mid Dynasty 13
- Date: ca. 1760–1670 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht North, Cemetery, MMA excavations
- Medium: Glazed steatite
- Dimensions: L. 2.2 × W. 1.5 × H. 1 cm (7/8 × 9/16 × 3/8 in.)
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1920
- Object Number: 20.1.23
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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