Private Name Seal of Reni-seneb

Description This steatite scarab is inscribed on the flat underside with vertically arranged column writing that name an individual and make a statement of social status. The top is carved with a detailed design in deep lines with regular flow. The piece is simply made and the workmanship is slightly rough. The scarab functioned as a private name seal, and user individualized amulet and was originally mounted or threaded. The amulet should guarantee constancy of individual existence and social status. The name Reni-seneb was very popular in the Middle Kingdom.

Exhibitions

• Secret Signs: Egyptian Writing. The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore. 2003-2004.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Inscriptions [Transcription] "Overseer of the office of calculations and distributions: Reni- seneb, the justified one." The flower bunch for the phrase "the justified one" is reversed.

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters