This scarab bears the titles and name of a 13th Dynasty official, the royal treasurer, Senebsumai. The name Senebsumai has been documented on a high number of scarabs and stelae, attesting to the longevity of his role as treasurer and his influence. From the material evidence it seems he was an official from the first half of the 13th Dynasty until, at latest, the reign of Neferhotep I. He held the office of steward before he became treasurer.
This scarab also documents the changes that occurred during the late Middle Kingdom to the bureaucratic system which led to an increase in official scarab seal productions. Scarabs were mass produced to deal with demands and thousands bare the names and epithets of court officials. They were used for administrative purposes; to seal documents and monuments.
To find out more about Ancient Egyptian amulets please see our relevant blog post: Egyptian Amulets and their Meanings.
