An Exceptional Egyptian lapis scarboid pendant, Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11- 12, ca. 2040 - 1786 BCE Sculpture - Stone likely tied to protective symbolism

likely tied to protective symbolism

drilled longitudinally for suspension

may explain the ritual interment of ceramic or actual dogs

This substantial rotary grinding stone is carved from speckled grano-diorite

the upper body decorated with two charming red-brown long-necked birds over cream ground

An Exceptional Egyptian lapis scarboid pendant, Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11- 12, ca. 2040 - 1786 BCE Sculpture - Stone likely tied to protective symbolismFew surviving pieces of Egyptian jewelry combine rarity, beauty, and provenance as compellingly as this exceptional lapis lazuli scaraboid. Carved from a rare, richly colored stone of deep cobalt blue, the scaraboid would originally have served as the centerpiece of an elegant Middle Kingdom swivel ring, one of the most sophisticated forms of personal adornment produced by Egyptian goldsmiths. The cowrie shaped lapis is preserved within its original