In keeping with the Egyptian design tenets of the period for the creation of scarabs, there is no division between the thorax and wing case, although there is a great deal of articulation in the head so that its eyes, clypeus, and plate are distinguishable.
The base of the scarab contains an interesting motto and this is framed by a spiraling pattern of three interlocking scrolls on each of the vertical sides connected to each other at the top and bottom by the same continuous line. Within this border is a cartouche, or royal ring, introduced by two hieroglyphs, that for a bolt of cloth, depicted in reverse orientation, and that of a kneeling male figure with one arm raised in adoration. The cartouche itself contains four neatly spaced hieroglyphs, ostensibly spelling a pharaoh’s name, but one that is not attested in known king’s lists.
Consequently, one can assigned our scarab to the period between the late Middle Kingdom and the Second Intermediate Period. It must be considered a product of an ancient Egyptian atelier, but one that is exceptional and, at present, without known parallels.
