A steatite scarab of ovoid form with well-defined clypeus and prothorax, pierced longitudinally for suspension. The base is engraved with a stylized winged sphinx or griffin striding left, with distinctive wing and raised foreleg, above a nb-basket - a classic apotropaic and royal protective motif of the late Middle Kingdom to Hyksos Period.

Scarabs with winged mythical creatures were popular as protective amulets and seals, symbolizing power, protection and kingship, blending Egyptian and Levantine iconographic traditions typical for this period.

Material: Steatite with remains of original white glaze
Dimensions: 1.8 x 1.3 cm (18 x 13 mm)
Condition: Good. Surface with age-appropriate wear, glaze remnants and minor surface crazing as seen. Intaglio legible, complete. With original old collection tag No. 305015 attached with burgundy thread, housed in perspex mount.

Provenance:
Freeman's Auction House, New York, Harmer Rooke Sale, 1984
Ex old American private collection, with vintage inventory tag.

A characteristic and collectible Hyksos Period scarab with mythological iconography.

Price € 275,—