Scarab with the Representation of a Sphinx
The underside of the scarab shows a stylized representation of a recumbent human-headed sphinx, wearing a crown. A vertical motif in front of the creature probably represents a uraeus (the aroused cobra), while a vulture flies above. The scene refers to divine kingship because the sphinx is one of the animals that symbolizes the king. This is emphasized by the presence of the uraeus and the vulture, which are closely related to the pharaoh as representations of the titulary goddesses of Lower and Upper Egypt, Wadjet and Nekhbet.
Artwork Details
- Title: Scarab with the Representation of a Sphinx
- Period: New Kingdom
- Dynasty: Dynasty 20–21
- Date: ca. 1186–945 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht North, Cemetery, MMA excavations, 1906–07
- Medium: Green glazed steatite
- Dimensions: L. 1.8 × W. 1.3 × H. 0.9 cm (11/16 × 1/2 × 3/8 in.)
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1909
- Object Number: 09.180.998
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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ca. 1961–1917 B.C.
ca. 1961–1917 B.C.
ca. 1961–1917 B.C.
ca. 1919–1885 B.C.
ca. 1981–1952 BCE
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