Scarab with Plant Motif

Middle Kingdom

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 109

During the late Middle Kingdom (late Dynasty 12–mid Dynasty 13, ca. 1850–1640 B.C), decorations on scarabs often show symmetric designs and combinations of signs and symbols that are nicely composed.

This is also the case for floral and plant decorations, which consist of representations of papyrus plants, and lotus flowers and their buds. Plants are a popular theme on the underside of seal-amulets because they refer to life, renewal, and regeneration.

Scarab with Plant Motif, Blue glazed faience

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Scarab with Plant Motif, Blue glazed faience
Scarab with Plant Motif, Blue glazed faience
Scarab with Plant Motif, Blue glazed faience
Scarab with Plant Motif, Blue glazed faience

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