Scarab with a Representation of Seth-Baal and Uraeus
Unknown Artist
ca. 1295–1070 B.C.
Medium
Light green faience
Dimensions
L. 2.1 × W. 1.4 × H. 0.9 cm (13/16 × 9/16 × 3/8 in.)
Classification
Scarab, Seth -Baal, uraeus, sun disk
Period
New Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1922
Accession Number
22.1.425
Tags
Art Historical Context
In the bustling world of ancient Egypt's New Kingdom (ca. 1295–1070 B.C.), during Dynasties 19–20, scarabs like this diminutive light green faience gem served as powerful amulets, seals, and symbols of rebirth. Shaped like the sacred scarab beetle associated with the sun god Khepri, tiny artifact—measuring just 2.1 cm long—was likely worn as jewelry or used to imprint documents. Crafted from faience, a glazed ceramic made from crushed quartz and vibrant glazes, it mimics precious stones like turquoise, evoking themes of fertility and eternal life. The scarab's engraved design features Seth-Ba...