An Exceptional Egyptian lapis scarboid pendant, Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11- 12, ca. 2040 - 1786 BCE
EJ1402a
- This object qualifies for free and fast worldwide shipping.
Few 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 high-karat gold setting, an extraordinary survival in its own right. Fashioned from a narrow strip of gold wrapped around the perimeter of the stone and carefully folded over the edges of the bezel base, the mount secures the scaraboid while leaving the underside exposed. This method of construction is entirely consistent with ancient Egyptian goldworking techniques and demonstrates the remarkable technical skill of Middle Kingdom jewelers. Original gold mounts of this type are rarely encountered on the market, having often been lost, damaged, or melted down in antiquity.
Lapis lazuli was among the most prized materials in the ancient world. Imported over vast distances from mines in present-day Afghanistan, it was reserved for objects of luxury and prestige. Its intense blue color evoked the heavens and was associated with divinity, rebirth, and royal power. The use of such a costly material, combined with the precious gold mounting, indicates that the original owner belonged to Egypt's privileged elite.
Medium: Lapis, gold
Dimensions: Pendant length: 5/8 inch (1.8 cm) Strung as a pendant on an 18-inch 18K gold chain
Condition: The scaraboid is intact and in excellent condition.
Provenance: Acquired in Egypt by Goddard Du Bois (b. 1869 – d. 1925) and Josephine Cook Du Bois (b. 1864 – d. 1961), New York, between 1900 and 1907, and then by descent.
Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.
Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
We ship Tuesday to Friday with FedEx and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping and insurance is free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.
If we are shipping this object to you overseas, there is no charge for packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements.
We send overseas shipments with FedEx International Priority which usually means two to three day delivery to Europe and the UK, customs willing but contact us if you have a shipping preference.
Please note: International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes.
