Stylized Scarab with Cartouche of Thutmosis IV (1397-1388 BC)

Description This steatite scarab has a flat underside with an inscription on the bottom carved in sunk relief technique. The piece was originally glazed. The top of the scarab is decorated with deep and thick incised details. The workmanship of this piece is good. This piece originally functioned as an individualized amulet and was once mounted or threaded. The amulet should secure the royal authority for this king, Thutmosis IV (1397-1388 BC), by his close relation to the god Amun; it should provide a private owner with this king's royal patronage. The royal epithet "Image of Amun" is very popular on scarabs of the New Kingdom.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1911 (?) [mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Inscriptions [Translation] Men-kheperu-Re; Image of Amun.

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters, 1911 (?)