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

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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

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