Second Intermediate Period, ca. 1720-1650 BC. A steatite scarab seal with its clypeus, prothorax, and elytra delicately detailed and engraved to the underside. The scarab was a powerful symbol of rebirth and regeneration in ancient Egyptian religion, and scarab amulets were thought to have protective and magical properties. The flat base of the scarab provided an ideal surface for inscribing texts or designs, and scarab seals were often inscribed with the name or title of the owner, as well as images and hieroglyphs that were considered significant. Some scarabs were inscribed with spells or prayers and were thought to provide protection against evil forces. Cf. Petrie, W.M. Flinders. 1914. Amulets. Pl. VII.Size: L:15mm / W:10mm ; 1.85gProvenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly acquired in early 2000s; previously in 1970s UK collection.