Egyptian scarab beetle inscribed with hieroglyphs
 A finely carved and engraved steatite scarab with hieroglyphs (in the center, a scarab)
 Middle Kingdom, 11th to 13th Dynasty - 2055 to 1790 BC.
 Pierced lengthwise to be worn as a necklace
 Dimensions: 17 mm x 12 mm - Perfect condition
 Provenance history: Collection of Mrs. B. Ellison, a deceased former member of the Egyptian Exploration Fund, purchased in the 1940s, in Cairo.

 The Egyptian scarab, a symbol of rebirth and protection, held a prominent place in the culture of ancient Egypt. Carved in the image of a dung beetle, it was associated with the sun god Ra and the cycle of life. The gold scarab of Tutankhamun, discovered in his tomb, illustrates the importance of scarabs as amulets. Adorned with incantations or symbols, scarabs were worn as powerful talismans, testifying to the Egyptians' belief in their transformative and protective virtues. These small, finely decorated objects of great cultural value occupy a profound place in the symbolism and spirituality of ancient Egypt.

 Internal reference: j708