A steatite scarab with wing cases marked, pierced longitudinally for suspension. The underside is carved to show a lion attacking or confronting a backward facing human figure, possibly wielding a weapon.
Supplied with a modern hard wax impression.
 
Egyptian 17th Dynasty: Circa 1650-1550 BC. BC.
 
Condition: Very Fine; complete and intact
Length 20 mms (0.8 ins).
 
Provenance: Collection of a Professor of Levantine Archaeology
 
The lion was a symbol of royal power, strength, and domination, and in the Hyksos period, the lion also represented the foreign ruler's martial might. The gesture of raising an arm or weapon (if visible) would indicate combat or divine protection and depicting the victory of kingly power over enemies As an amulet could also be used to protect and ward away evil.