Egyptian Steatite Scarab

20th Dynasty, New Kingdom of Egypt, c. 1186–1069 BC

A charming and finely carved Egyptian steatite scarab of small size, displaying remarkable craftsmanship and attention to detail. The upper surface is skilfully modelled as a sacred scarab beetle, with a clearly defined clypeus and head, while finely incised lines delineate the prothorax and elytra, lending the insect a naturalistic and well-balanced appearance.

The underside is engraved with an elegant symmetrical design comprising six groups of concentric circles arranged around a central linear motif. The scarab is pierced longitudinally for suspension, allowing it to have been worn as a protective amulet or mounted within a ring or other piece of jewellery. Decorative motifs such as concentric circles, floral scrolls, and abstract geometric designs were among the most common devices found on Egyptian scarabs. Although their precise symbolic significance remains uncertain, they served as attractive ornamental compositions and were especially popular from the Middle Kingdom through the Hyksos period and into the New Kingdom. The carefully rendered anatomical details of the beetle, including the pronounced humeral callosities, indicate a later date of manufacture, as such features are generally associated with scarabs produced during the New Kingdom, particularly from the 18th Dynasty onward.

Scarabs of this type were widely used throughout the New Kingdom as personal seals, protective amulets, and devotional objects. Many bore the names of kings, religious emblems, or auspicious inscriptions, while others, such as this example, relied upon symbolic decorative motifs. Their continued production and circulation over many centuries reflects the enduring religious and cultural significance of the scarab within Egyptian society.

In ancient Egyptian belief, the scarab beetle (Scarabaeus sacer) symbolised rebirth, regeneration, and the eternal cycle of existence. The Egyptians observed the beetle rolling balls of dung across the ground and likened this action to the daily journey of the sun across the sky. As a result, the scarab became closely associated with the god Khepri, the divine manifestation of the rising sun, who embodied creation, renewal, and transformation.

Among the most recognisable symbols of ancient Egypt, scarabs combined artistic refinement with profound spiritual meaning. This finely engraved example is a beautiful testament to the skill of Egyptian craftsmen and the enduring religious traditions of the New Kingdom, offering a tangible connection to one of history's most fascinating civilizations.

Good condition to the obverse and reverse. Surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age, with chips, nicks and abrasion, with fading to some finer features, and light encrustations within recessed areas. Nice earthen deposits throughout. Please note the small dimensions of this scarab. Size approx. 1,6cm x 1,2cm x 0,6cm. 

Provenance: From the collection of Stig Regnell. Acquired abroad and brought to Sweden during the 1960s. Previously in the collection of Mr. H. Khattab, 11 Mariette Pasha Street, Cairo.

For a similar example see:

Scarab, National Museums Liverpool, Accession Number:13.12.05.30d                              (https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/artifact/scarab-322)