C. 1570-1293 BC – Dynasty XVIII, New Kingdom

A nice carved steatite scarab with incised detail to back and hieroglyphs to base, featuring Anubis and Bes with sun disc above.

Anubis, the jackal-headed god of the dead and the process of embalming and associated with the afterlife.

Bes, the dwarf-god with characteristics of a dwarf and a lion. He stands with hands resting on his thighs with a tail hanging between his legs, and wears a headdress consisting of large plumes. The ancient Egyptian deity Bes, was worshipped as a protector of households, mothers, children and childbirth. He later came to be regarded as the defender of everything good and the enemy of all that is bad.

Minor nicks to base edge with good, clear hieroglyphs.

Provenance: Ex Helios Gallery. Ex J. L. Collection.

Size: 15mm length