Ancient Egypt, Second Intermediate Period Steatite Scarab (No reserve price)






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Ancient Egyptian steatite scarab amulet from the Second Intermediate Period, circa 1650–1550 BC, measuring 1.8 cm by 1.2 cm, in good condition, with provenance Ex Mustaki Collection, UK.
Description from the seller
A steatite Egyptian scarab beetle amulet with incised hieroglyphs to the reverse. The anatomical details of the scarab are delicately rendered, with an incised clypeus, eyes and head. The arched back features incisions to mark prothorax and elytra. Feathered incisions to the sides mark the folded legs of the beetle. The reverse shows a highly stylised symmetrical design, featuring two deshret crowns flanking a linear geometric motif. Signs of ageing such as scratches to the surface and discolouration. There is a chip to the obverse near the bottom edge of the scarab near the perforated hole.
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 1.2cm
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
A steatite Egyptian scarab beetle amulet with incised hieroglyphs to the reverse. The anatomical details of the scarab are delicately rendered, with an incised clypeus, eyes and head. The arched back features incisions to mark prothorax and elytra. Feathered incisions to the sides mark the folded legs of the beetle. The reverse shows a highly stylised symmetrical design, featuring two deshret crowns flanking a linear geometric motif. Signs of ageing such as scratches to the surface and discolouration. There is a chip to the obverse near the bottom edge of the scarab near the perforated hole.
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 1.2cm
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.
