Scarab Inscribed with Blessing Related to Re

Middle Kingdom

ca. 1850–1640 B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 109

During the late Middle Kingdom (late Dynasty 12–13, ca. 1850–1640 B.C.), numerous scarabs were incised with inscriptions related to the sun god Re. These scarabs are often quite small. The precise meaning of the inscriptions remains unclear: they can be interpreted as forming the name Re, or as a phrase or wish meaning (may) Re give. Such inscriptions summon the sun god’s protection.

These so-called ‘rdi ra’ scarabs continue to be manufactured during the Second Intermediate Period (ca. 1640–1550 B.C.), but show different details on the back and sides.

Artwork Details

Overview

Translation

Provenance

Title: Scarab Inscribed with Blessing Related to Re
Period: Middle Kingdom
Dynasty: late Dynasty 12–Dynasty 13
Date: ca. 1850–1640 B.C.
Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht North, Cemetery, debris, MMA excavations
Medium: Green faience
Dimensions: L. 0.8 × W. 0.5 × H. 0.3 cm (5/16 × 3/16 × 1/8 in.)
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1909
Object Number: 09.180.1053
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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