A very fine Egyptian steatite scarab with incised reverse featuring the Sema Tawy symbol. The obverse displays a stylised head and an unadorned body which is coloured due to oxidisation. The side of the scarab is decorated with linear, parallel incisions, which run around the entirety of the body. The reverse displays the Sema Tawy motif, symbolising the unification of Egypt. The motif consists of a windpipe entwined with lotus and papyrus plants, floral symbols that represent Upper and Lower Egypt respectively. It also contains the ankh symbol, meaning life. The scarab has been pierced longitudinally for suspension.
Egyptian Second Intermediate Period: Circa 1782 - 1550 BC.
Condition: Very fine condition. Earthly encrustations and other signs of wear consistent with age.
Length 20.2 ms (0.8 ins).
Provenance: Ex S. Mustaki collection, London, early 20th century, UK.
For similar see: Met Museum NY object number 09.180.1220