EGYPTIAN OR LATER SCARAB WITH HIEROGLYPHIC INSCRIPTION

New Kingdom, Ca. 1550 - 1069 BC. A pale-stone scarab of substantial oval form, the upper surface is finely carved, with the clypeus, pronotum, wing cases, and legs carefully articulated by incised details. The underside bears several horizontal registers of hieroglyphic signs enclosed within a double oval border. Extensive abrasion and surface wear have obscured many of the signs, rendering a secure reading of the inscription extremely difficult. Nevertheless, the ambitious hieroglyphic programme and refined execution of the upper carving indicate an object originally made to a notably high standard. Minor chips, deposits, and wear are commensurate with age. Size: 60mm x 44mm; Weight: 107g Provenance: Private UK collection; formerly H.G. collection; acquired from A. Kotllar, Paris, French art market, 1970–2006.