Scarab with Representation of Bes

Unknown

ca. 1295–1070 B.C. · Glazed steatite · Egyptian Art

This scarab calls upon the protection of the dwarf god Bes, represented here in a frontal posture. He bends his knees, between which his tail can be discerned, and holds both hands on his hips. He only wears a headdress, consisting of four straight feathers. As the ancient Egyptian god of fertility and the household, Bes was also the protector of mother and child. On seal-amulets, Bes was particularly popular during the Ramesside Period (ca. 1295-1070 B.C.) and numerous scarabs with this decoration have been found in Egypt, the Levant and throughout the Mediterranean region.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1295–1070 B.C.

Medium

Glazed steatite

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of John L. Cadwalader, 1903