An Exceptional Egyptian lapis scarboid pendant, Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11- 12, ca. 2040 - 1786 BCE Medium - Gold “mossy” inclusions likely added symbolic

“mossy” inclusions likely added symbolic potency in addition to its visual appeal

adding to its allure

Suspended from the body are three dangling elements comprising a carnelian bead sitting above a round gold terminal that creates a fabulous sense of movement

A transverse bronze plate intersects the shafts diagonally

The stone is cut as a high dome and polished to a smooth finish

An Exceptional Egyptian lapis scarboid pendant, Middle Kingdom, Dynasty 11- 12, ca. 2040 - 1786 BCE Medium - Gold “mossy” inclusions likely added symbolicFew 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