An Egyptian Scarab Swivel Ring

Dynasty XII-XIII, ca 1991-1720 B.C. Pierced longitudinally for suspension, the scarab is finely-carved from steatite, the back has no suture of pronotum separation, rather notches occur where pronotum meets the elytra, characteristics of Middle Kingdom to Second Intermediate Period dating. The legs are naturalistically carved. The base decoration is beautifully incised with a scroll and rope design.  Set in a bronze shank as a ring. For a similar example, see Rowe, A Catalogue of Egyptian Scarabs, Scaraboids, Seals and Amulets in the Palastine Archaeological Museum, Plate II, #S.56-58.

Provenance: Ex-private Californian Collection then by descent to present owner.

there is a reserve on this lot

Intact and in excellent condition overall, with heavy deposits to the bronze, a beautiful example.