13th - 17th Dynasty, Ca. 1630-1539 BC . A steatite cowroid seal, glazed and mounted in gold, originally with ring with swivel. Base of seal inscribed. As the cowrie shell resembles female genitalia, the Egyptians believed it could magically ensure procreative powers. Wealthy Egyptians frequently wore cowroids mounted in gold rings. The design on the bottom of this cowroid is carved in a style frequently found on Hyksos scarabs. Size: 14mm x 10mm; Weight: 2g Provenance: Prince collection, 1990s-2014, acquired in 2003, Ex. Private collection 1970s-1990s. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.