Probably serpentine, naturalistically modelled with the details of the beetle's anatomical features defined, such as the clypeus (head), prothorax, and elytra wing coverings. On the sides the shaped legs are...
Probably serpentine, naturalistically modelled with the details of the beetle's anatomical features defined, such as the clypeus (head), prothorax, and elytra wing coverings. On the sides the shaped legs are visible. The underside is flat and uninscribed.
Private collection, Europe Hotel Drouot, Paris, 2 April 2014, lot 114 With Dominique Thirion, Brussels Acquired by the present owner from the above
Literature
The scarab was extremely popular in the religious beliefs of ancient Egypt as the symbol of the rising sun, rebirth, and regeneration. The larger examples such as this, were placed on the chest and called “heart scarabs”; they replaced the real heart of the deceased, which found its final resting place in one of the four canopic jars. They are often inscribed with a spell from the Book of the Dead imploring the heart not to abandon its owner.