Scarab with Representation of Bes
This scarab calls upon the protection of the dwarf god Bes, represented here in a frontal posture. He bends his knees, between which his tail can be discerned, and holds both hands on his hips. He only wears a headdress, consisting of four straight feathers. As the ancient Egyptian god of fertility and the household, Bes was also the protector of mother and child. On seal-amulets, Bes was particularly popular during the Ramesside Period (ca. 1295-1070 B.C.) and numerous scarabs with this decoration have been found in Egypt, the Levant and throughout the Mediterranean region.
Artwork Details
- Title: Scarab with Representation of Bes
- Period: New Kingdom
- Dynasty: Dynasty 19–20
- Date: ca. 1295–1070 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Glazed steatite
- Dimensions: L. 1.7 cm (11/16 in.)
- Credit Line: Gift of John L. Cadwalader, 1903
- Object Number: 03.5.13
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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