Egyptian Grey Hardstone Scarab Dedicated to Nub-Kheper-Ra Intef

£1,100.00

An Egyptian, rare, grey hardstone scarab with incised markings to depict a stylised clypeus and head, whilst double inscribed lines have been used to depict the prothorax and elytra. The reverse features a detailed scene with three distinct hieroglyphs. To the top is a small sun disk, followed in the centre by a ‘kheper’ scarab sign. The final sign is described as a broad collar necklace, and is known as the ‘nub’ sign. Together the hieroglyphs form the throne name of the pharaoh Nub-kheper-ra Intef, the fifth pharaoh of the 17th dynasty. His throne name translates as ‘The golden one is the manifestation of Ra’.

The scarab has been pierced longitudinally for suspension.

This is an extremely rare scarab.

Date: Circa 1630–1539 BC
Period: Second Intermediate Period.
Provenance: Ex private UK collection, Mr. DP, formerly acquired from a London ADA dealership, from 2004-2012.
Condition: Very fine condition.

In stock

SKU: CF-24 Category: Tags: , , ,

The scarab beetle was an exceedingly popular symbol in the art of Ancient Egypt, thought to represent the sun god, Ra. The Ancient Egyptians believed that the scarab beetle rolling its ball of dung across the desert mirrored the journey of the sun across the sky from day to night. As the beetle laid its eggs within the dung, it became a symbol of rebirth and regeneration. These scarab beetle amulets were made in various forms, such as heart scarabs, commemorative scarabs, and scarab amulets, thus catering to different functions. Scarab amulets were believed to have magical rejuvenating properties, used by both the living and the dead.

Nub-kheper-ra Intef, son of Sobekemsaf II, brother to Sekhemre-Wepmaat Intef, was the fifth king of the 17th dynasty, having succeeded his brother after his death in 1571 BC. Nub-kheper-ra Intef ruled from Thebes in ‘Upper Egypt’, while the Hyksos dynasty controlled ‘Lower Egypt.’ He presided over the restoration and construction of numerous temples, and is mentioned on over twenty contemporary monuments, demonstrating the power of his position as ruler and making him one of the most documented rulers of the Second Intermediate Period.

Weight 3.78 g
Dimensions L 1.9 x W 1.5 x H 0.8 cm
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Stone

Region

Reference: For a similar item, Brooklyn Museum, item 16.419

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