Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll

Middle Kingdom

ca. 1760–1670 B.C.

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).

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Scarab Incised with Hieroglyphs and Scroll
Period: Middle Kingdom
Dynasty: mid Dynasty 13
Date: ca. 1760–1670 B.C.
Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht North, Cemetery, MMA excavations
Medium: Steatite, traces of green glaze
Dimensions: L. 1.3 × W. 0.9 × H. 0.6 cm (1/2 × 3/8 × 1/4 in.)
Credit Line: Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1920
Object Number: 20.1.138
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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