Ancient Egyptian Steatite Scarab Dedicated to Khonsu

£ 300.00

An Ancient Egyptian steatite scarab dedicated to the god Ra. The obverse features a stylised head and clypeus, formed from incised lines. Linear striations mark the elytra. To the reverse are three large and clearly incised hieroglyphs. To the left is the ‘swt’ plant, known as the symbol of Upper Egypt. Alongside it is a large, circular striated sign and single horizontal stroke. The circle transliterates as ‘kh’ and the single stroke represents the water ripple, ‘n’ sign. Together these three signs combine to form the name of the god Khonsu.

The scarab has been pierced longitudinally for suspension.

Date: Circa 664-552
Period: Late Period
Provenance: Ex private collection, Cambridge, Mr S. Collection.
Condition: Very fine condition with very clear hieroglyphs on the reverse. Large suspension hole.

In stock

SKU: HD-47 Category: Tags: , ,

For the Ancient Egyptians, amulets were not only decorative but also utilitarian as an apotropaic force. Many amulets have been found inside the wrapping of mummies to ensure a safe journey into the afterlife, but amulets were also used by the living for protection or in order to have their wishes granted. Amulets had different meanings depending on their type or form, and small amulets depicting the gods, whether in a human or animal form, were thought to induce protective powers over the wearer.

Khonsu was the Egyptian god of the moon, worshiped extensively in Thebes. Together with his mother, Mut, and father, Amun, he formed part of the Theban triad. He was a god associated with travel and the passing of time and had a vital role to play in the creation of life.

To find out more about Ancient Egyptian amulets please see our relevant blog post: Egyptian Amulets and their Meanings.

Weight 1.68 g
Dimensions L 1.6 x W 1.1 cm
Culture

Stone

Region

Reference: For a similar item, The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, item 76.31.3569

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