Scarab with the Representation of Fecundity Figures (Hapy)
Unknown Artist
ca. 1802–1640 B.C.
Medium
Steatite
Dimensions
L. 2 × W. 1.4 × H. 0.9 cm (13/16 in. × 9/16 in. × 3/8 in.)
Classification
Scarab with two fecundity figures, hieroglyphs, nefer, ankh, Hapi, Nile God
Period
Middle Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1915
Accession Number
15.3.62
Art Historical Context
Behold this exquisite scarab amulet from Egypt's Middle Kingdom, crafted around 1802–1640 B.C. during Dynasty 13. Carved from steatite—a soft, soapstone-like material ideal for intricate detailing—this tiny treasure measures just 2 cm long, small enough to wear as jewelry or use as a seal. At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, thanks to the Rogers Fund of 1915, it the masterful lapidary work of anonymous ancient artisans who transformed humble stone into potent symbols. The scarab's surface features representations of fecundity figures embodying Hapy, the Nile god of fertility and the river's li...