This steatite scarab seal from the Post-Pharaonic period of ancient Egypt is an emblematic artifact symbolizing transformation and protection. Carved with great precision, the seal features hieroglyphs that likely denote a spell or the name of an owner, serving as a personal amulet or an administrative tool. The intricate glyphs and carved animal forms on the flat underside reveal the work of a skilled artisan.

The scarab, a sacred beetle, was intimately linked with the Egyptian god Khepri, representing the sun's cyclical nature and the idea of rebirth. This seal's iconography and size suggest it may have been used to stamp official documents or as a tangible bearer of identity in the afterlife. The well-preserved nature of the carving allows for a clear view into the artistic conventions of the time.

For the present-day collector, the seal provides a tangible connection to the everyday lives of ancient Egyptians in a period marked by cultural retention and adaptation following the reign of the pharaohs. It remains a captivating piece, offering insight into the complex interplay of art, religion, and administration in ancient Egypt.

Dimensions:
4.3 x 2.6 inches (11 x 6.5 cm)

Thousand Planet Auction House - General Condition Policy

1. All lots offered in our auctions are acquired from major estate auctions and are carefully curated by Thousand Planet Auction House. We represent the first point of provenance post-acquisition, with sources including estates in Dubai and collections from hobby enthusiasts.

2. 'As Is' Sale: Each lot is sold in its present condition ('as is'), inclusive of all existing faults, wear, or imperfections. While we strive to provide detailed descriptions and high-quality photographs, we do not make claims or guarantees about the condition, authenticity, or completeness of any lot.

3. Buyer Responsibility: It is the responsibility of prospective buyers to thoroughly review all provided materials, conduct their own research, and, if necessary, consult external expertise. This due diligence is vital in ascertaining the condition and authenticity of each item. Thousand Planet Auction House will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in condition reports or descriptions.

4. Final Sale: All sales at Thousand Planet Auction House are final and conclusive. We do not accept returns, nor do we issue refunds based on condition or authenticity disputes. Buyers are encouraged to be fully informed about their selections before making a purchase.

Thousand Planet Auction House - Efforts in Information Generation:

At Thousand Planet Auction House, we understand the importance of providing our clients with as much information as possible about each lot we present. Our commitment to this goal is unwavering, especially given the unique challenges we face.

Due to the diverse origins of our lots, which often come from large estate auctions where items are mixed and provenance can be complex, we do not receive detailed historical provenance for every item. In response to this challenge, our dedicated team works tirelessly to research each artifact. We employ a rigorous process of visual analysis and comparison, drawing upon a vast array of resources including academic research from universities, findings from various institutes, and records from museums globally.

This meticulous approach allows us to create informed introductions for each lot. We aim to provide our bidders with a clear understanding of each item's characteristics and possible historical context. It's important for our clients to know that every piece of information in our listings is the result of extensive research and careful consideration by our knowledgeable staff.

We take pride in our efforts to uncover and present as much information as we can. However, we also recognize the limitations of our research and encourage bidders to conduct their own investigations. This collaborative approach between our auction house and potential buyers ensures a more comprehensive understanding of each lot and its potential value.