Egyptian Hardstone Scarab with a Lion

£ 395.00

An Egyptian hardstone scarab with a decorated reverse. The obverse features moulded details with a simplified clypeus and head. The reverse features a lion walking to the right, with his tail lifted over his back. The scarab has been pierced longitudinally for suspension.

Date: Circa 1700 to 1550 BC
Period: Second Intermediate Period
Condition: Very good condition, clear decoration to the reverse.

In stock

SKU: AH-1241 Category: Tags: , , , ,

The lion was much admired for its fierceness and bravery and was a popular feature on Second Intermediate scarabs. Recumbent lions were a popular symbol of pharaonic power, embodying the strength and prowess of the animal, the most ferocious within the Nile region. Standing lions, prowling forward, usually represented the hunt and the ability to conquer a foe. For this reason, they were a popular emblem on Hyksos scarabs, who were seen as the conquering foreign power.

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

Weight 5.38 g
Dimensions L 2.1 x W 1.3 x H 1 cm
Culture

Region

Stone

Reference: For a similar item, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, item 34.126.20

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