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Scarab with a Representation of Bes and Animals

New Kingdom
ca. 1300–1080 BCE
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 130
The Bes-image is popular on scarabs of the Ramesside Period (Dynasty 19-20, ca. 1295-1070 B.C.). He is often portrayed standing and in frontal view with his hands resting on his thighs, a tail hanging between his legs, and a headdress consisting of large plumes. Bes is particularly called upon for his protective capacities.

On either side are apes, raising their arms in adoration towards Bes.

Above, the goddess Nekhbet is portrayed in her avian form, as a vulture, and she spreads out her wings while she holds shen-signs or ‘rings of eternity’. A winged sun disk is placed above the scene.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Scarab with a Representation of Bes and Animals
  • Period: New Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 19–20
  • Date: ca. 1300–1080 BCE
  • Geography: From Egypt
  • Medium: Glazed steatite
  • Dimensions: L. 4.1 × W. 2.9 × H. 1.7 cm (1 5/8 × 1 1/8 × 11/16 in.)
  • Credit Line: Gift of Joseph W. Drexel, 1889
  • Object Number: 89.2.630
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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