The cobra and the Ureaus were associated with the goddess, Wadjet – the protective deity of Lower Egypt. A powerful figure, Wadjet accounted for one half of the euphemistic ‘Two Ladies’ title of the Pharaoh (the other half being the vulture goddess Nekhbet), and accordingly acted as a symbol for divine rule, sovereignty, and absolute authority. As party of the pharaohs royal titular, the ‘Two Ladies’ title was represented with the uruaeus or vulture hieroglyph standing on a basket sign, a ‘neb’ hieroglyph. The uraeai inscribed upon this scarab could be calling on the goddess’ protection, as patron of Lower Egypt.
To find out more about Ancient Egyptian amulets please see our relevant blog post: Egyptian Amulets and their Meanings.