An Egyptian carnelian scarab amulet with incised detailing to the head, elytra and legs. The underside has been engraved with a star motif. The amulet has been pierced longitudinally for suspension. A small perforation at the base of the scarab. The scarab beetle was an exceedingly popular symbol in the art of Ancient Egypt, thought to represent the sun god, Ra. 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. The use of carnelian as a material also linked to the sun god, Ra, as the stone’s fiery colour was connected to the solar cult. Measurements: L 1.2cm x W 0.7cm Provenance: EX-AH collection of scarabs, London 1980-2000's.