Ancient Egyptian Faience Scarab
Description
Late Period, c. 1000–500 BCE**
An authentic Ancient Egyptian faience scarab amulet dating to the Late Period, approximately 1000–500 BCE. This finely modeled example is formed in vibrant turquoise-blue glazed faience, a quartz-based ceramic traditionally used in Egypt for sacred and amuletic objects.
The scarab is carefully carved with naturalistic anatomical details including a domed back, defined clypeus, incised thorax line, and delineated wing cases. The glaze shows attractive age-consistent wear, mineral deposits, and areas of patina from burial, all consistent with ancient manufacture and long-term archaeological aging.
The flat base is engraved with hieroglyphic symbols arranged in a stylized composition. The design includes a seated figure and linear signs typical of protective and regenerative formulas associated with rebirth, divine favor, and solar symbolism. Such scarabs were worn as personal amulets, set into rings, or placed in burial wrappings to provide protection and spiritual renewal in both life and the afterlife.
Scarabs symbolized the god Khepri, the divine manifestation of the rising sun, and were among the most important sacred objects in Ancient Egyptian belief. Size 5/8"
Provenance
Ex: Old United Kingdom private collection, assembled prior to 2000.
Acquired on the European antiquities market and subsequently in a U.S. private collection.