Scarab with Protective Sign

Second Intermediate Period

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 109

Many Middle Kingdom and Second Intermediate Period scarabs show a hieroglyph in the shape of a long and narrow loop. It is a stylized version of the sign for protection (sa) and is often mistaken for another hieroglyph, the loop or ring (shen) that is used to form words that refer to encircling, enclosing. The protective loop, whether represented once or multiple times, with or without other positive signs and symbols, thus bestows protection upon the owner of the amulet.

Scarab with Protective Sign, Green glazed steatite

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Open Access

As part of the Met's Open Access policy, you can freely copy, modify and distribute this image, even for commercial purposes.

API

Public domain data for this object can also be accessed using the Met's Open Access API.

Scarab with Protective Sign, Green glazed steatite
Scarab with Protective Sign, Green glazed steatite
Scarab with Protective Sign, Green glazed steatite
Scarab with Protective Sign, Green glazed steatite

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.