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SCARABS. Ancient Egypt. New Kingdom. 1550-1070 BCE. Steatite. (15x11 mm). Base engraved with “OSIRIS” to right holding Scepter and “ANKH”, before him, Sun above Scepter and Palm Branch behind him. Some roughness and chipping. Some gray glaze remains. Pierced for suspension. Very rare.
From the Joseph A. Dow Collection; Ex Classical Numismatic Group 371 lot 1061, The Carl Devries Collection.
God OSIRIS is the ruler of the underworld and judge of the dead. Scepter is the magical emblem of authority and kingship in Ancient Egypt. The ANKH is a symbol of eternal life, the Gods are often seen holding an ANKH to someone’s lips to offer the person the breath of life which he will need in the afterlife. The Sun represents “RA”, the supreme Sun God. The Palm Branch is a symbol of triumph, peace and eternal life. This Scarab is showing the opening of the mouth ceremony, the ritual was performed to ceremoniously open the mouth and the eyes of the deceased so that they were able to see, breath, speak, eat and drink in the afterlife.
Closing Date and Time: 7 October 2026 at 16:13:20 ET.
All winning bids are subject to a 20% buyer’s fee.
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