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Egyptian Inscribed Scarab: Tuthmosis IIIAn ancient Egyptian steatite scarab bearing a carved inscription with the cartouche of the XVIIIth Dynasty Pharaoh Tuthmosis III: "Men-Kepher-Re," below a sedge and bee. New Kingdom. The ancient Egyptians believed the Scarabeus Beetle was able to spontaneously regenerate itself from cow dung, which these beetles can be observed rolling into small balls and burying. Consequently the scarab came to symbolize a spontaneous continuation of the life cycle. These finely carved amulets were worn in life and in necklaces around the mummy. Often the bases were inscribed with symbols or "words of power," intended to magically invigorate the wearer. Formerly in a European private collection. Inv#: 4328 Sold |
