An Exceptional Egyptian lapis scarboid pendant, Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11- 12, ca. 2040 - 1786 BCE

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.