Carved Scarab, Egypt, Ptolemaic Period, Ca. 332–30 Bc.

Scarab with beautiful naturalistic shapes, finely sculpted legs and a carapace incised with great precision. The body of the animal is finely crafted, balanced in its proportions. A lateral piercing from the head to the tail, intended for hanging. On the reverse, an engraved symbol represents a stylized flower with four petals. Carved, engraved, pierced, polished stone, mark of time (good general condition of conservation, see photos). Egypt, Ptolemaic period, ca. 332–30 BC. Dimensions: 1.4x0.8x0.6 cm. Provenance: former Marie-Ange Ciolkowski collection, Paris, constituted in the 60s–70s. Sold with a certificate of authenticity from the expert Serge Reynes, guarantee of origin and period. * Shipping costs on estimate. Historical Context: This intricately carved scarab dates from the Ptolemaic period, a period marked by varied cultural influences following invasions and trade. The engraving on the reverse, likely depicting a blue lotus flower, symbolizes creation, life, and rebirth. The four petals point toward the four cardinal points, thus opening the image of flowering throughout the earth. The lotus, associated with the sun and regeneration, remains a major symbol in ancient Egypt, embodying the rebirth of the world and humanity.