Egyptian Steatite ‘An-Ra’ Scarab with Symmetrical Hieroglyphs

£325.00

A steatite Egyptian ‘An-Ra’ scarab incised with symmetrical hieroglyphic signs of apotropaic significance. The obverse features a detailed head and clypeus, however decoration on the rest of the body consists only two small marks on either side, as a subtle prothorax. The reverse shows symmetrical hieroglyphs associated with blessings in order to protect their bearer. The amulet is pierced longitudinally for suspension, although this is now blocked.

Date: 1650-1550 BC
Period: 15th Dynasty, Second Intermediate Period
Condition: Very fine condition

SOLD

SKU: NS-02 Category: Tags: ,

This scarab from the Fifteenth dynasty in the Second Intermediate Period was undoubtedly a form of protection for its wearer. On the reverse are some incised An-Ra signs, transliterated as ‘a’, ‘n’, ‘r’ and whilst the combination of signs do not translate, the signs were held in high regard. These are often interpreted as the name of the sun god, Ra, or perhaps imitations by Asiatic craftsmen who did not understand the hieroglyphic script. Beneath the An-Ra is an image of a beaded collar, which here represents gold, a common metal in Egypt that was associated with the skin of the sun god. The two signs flanking the central imagery on the underside of the scarab beetle depicts a cow heart and larynx, pronounced ‘nefer’ and, despite its nature, represents beauty and goodness.

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

Weight 2.9 g
Dimensions L 1.8 cm
Culture

Egyptian Mythology

Region

Stone