An Egyptian ochre-glazed steatite scarab. The base is inscribed with a cartouche containing the familiar signs that spell out Men Kheper Re (mn ?pr r?), which translates to 'Enduring is the Manifestation of Ra.' It is the highly influential throne name (prenomen) of Pharaoh Thutmose III. The scarab is pierced longitudinally for suspension. It is supplied with a modern hard wax impression of the seal.
Ancient Egyptian: Circa 15th-6th century BC.
Very Fine condition.
Length 18.1 mms (0.7 ins)
Provenance: From the Gustave Mustaki collection, a collector of antiquities who amassed large collection in Alexandria (Egypt) in the early 20th century and his collection came to the UK under Egyptian licence in 1947.
Scarabs with the name of the Pharaoh Thutmose III were produced during his actual reign (circa 1479-1425 BC.) and posthumously for over 1,000 years after his death, stretching well into the Late Period. Because Thutmose III expanded Egypt to its greatest military heights, he was elevated to a legendary, god-like figure, transforming his name into a timeless symbol of divine protection The scarab was the most popular amulet in ancient Egypt and could assure protection for the bodies of mortals during their lifetime or help them on their journey through the netherworld. The name of the king acted as a powerful protective shield against evil spirits and bad luck.