Ancient Egypt, Third Intermediate Period Steatite Scarab, with Geometric Decoration






Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
| €51 | ||
|---|---|---|
| €50 | ||
| €3 | ||
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Ancient Egyptian steatite scarab from the Third Intermediate Period (circa 1069–664 BC) with geometric decoration on the flat reverse, pierced for suspension, measuring 1.8 cm by 1.2 cm and in good condition.
Description from the seller
An ancient Egyptian steatite scarab with incised motif to the reverse. The anatomical details of the scarab are delicately rendered, with an incised clypeus, eyes and head. The body is finely detailed with lined elytra and prothorax, and stylised legs are represented with incisions along the sides of the scarab. The flat reverse is decorated with a geometric pattern symmetrically arranged around a central cross. The scarab has been pierced longitudinally for suspension. There are some encrustations and minor chips to the piece.
The scarab beetle was an exceedingly popular symbol in the art of Ancient Egypt, thought to represent the sun god, Ra. The Ancient Egyptians believed that the scarab beetle rolling its ball of dung across the desert mirrored the journey of the sun across the sky from day to night. As the beetle laid its eggs within the dung, it became a symbol of rebirth and regeneration.
Measurements: L 1.8cm x W 1.2
Provenance: Ex Mustaki Collection, early 20th century, UK.
N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**
Seller's Story
An ancient Egyptian steatite scarab with incised motif to the reverse. The anatomical details of the scarab are delicately rendered, with an incised clypeus, eyes and head. The body is finely detailed with lined elytra and prothorax, and stylised legs are represented with incisions along the sides of the scarab. The flat reverse is decorated with a geometric pattern symmetrically arranged around a central cross. The scarab has been pierced longitudinally for suspension. There are some encrustations and minor chips to the piece.
The scarab beetle was an exceedingly popular symbol in the art of Ancient Egypt, thought to represent the sun god, Ra. The Ancient Egyptians believed that the scarab beetle rolling its ball of dung across the desert mirrored the journey of the sun across the sky from day to night. As the beetle laid its eggs within the dung, it became a symbol of rebirth and regeneration.
Measurements: L 1.8cm x W 1.2
Provenance: Ex Mustaki Collection, early 20th century, UK.
N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**
Seller's Story
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The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
