Antiques & Collectables, Coins, Watches, Gold & Silver (14% Buyers Commission)
decorative scarab beetle amulee, possibly steatite, or a dense composition material. The piece is finished with a pale turquoise-coloured glaze, with yellow-ochre pigment applied to the recessed carvings to highlight the details and simulate an aged appearance. The dorsal surface depicts a scarab beetle with a prominently carved, serrated clypeus. The elytra are decorated with stylised fish motifs, resembling the Nile tilapia, which was a symbol of rebirth in ancient Egypt. The flat ventral base is divided by incised lines into four vertical registers containing various pseudo-hieroglyphic characters. These markings include horizontal wavy lines, bird-like figures, a seated human figure wearing a headdress, and boat-like shapes. The carving style and artificial patina are consistent with 20th-century Egyptian revival decorative objects and souvenirs.
Condition report:
The item is in fair condition. A prominent horizontal fracture or crack is visible running through the centre of the base.
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