Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll

Middle Kingdom

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 109

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 shows the wedjat-eye, symbol for health and well-being, a vase, and a hieroglyph meaning protection (sa).

Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll, Steatite, traces of green glaze

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Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll, Steatite, traces of green glaze
Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll, Steatite, traces of green glaze
Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll, Steatite, traces of green glaze
Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll, Steatite, traces of green glaze

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