Scarab with the Representation of a Fish

New Kingdom

ca. 1479–1070 B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 122

Although the ancient Egyptians paid attention to detail when depicting fish on the walls of tombs and temples, it is not always possible to identify the species incised on seal-amulets. The fish is a popular theme on New Kingdom scarabs, especially during Dynasty 18 (ca. 1550–1295 B.C.). It is often assumed that these represent the well-known Nile tilapia, the fish which was a symbol of fertility and rebirth. New Kingdom scarabs show the fish with lotus flowers or buds coming from its mouth, or paired with another sign or symbol. Here, it may be a harpoon or fishing spear.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Scarab with the Representation of a Fish
Period: New Kingdom
Dynasty: mid Dynasty 18–20
Date: ca. 1479–1070 B.C.
Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht North, Cemetery, debris, MMA excavations, 1920–22
Medium: Green glazed faience
Dimensions: L. 1.9 × W. 1 × H. 0.7 cm (3/4 × 3/8 × 1/4 in.)
Credit Line: Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1922
Object Number: 22.1.452
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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