Royal Egyptian Artifact – "جعران مجنح" (Jaʿrān Majnīḥ) – "Winged Scarab" (pharaonic schist)

story:

In the realm of the gods, the winged scarab soared through the heavens, an emblem of divine protection and the eternal struggle between light and darkness. The ancient Egyptians believed that the winged scarab, or Khepri, was a manifestation of the sun god Ra’s power—a creature of both earth and sky, bridging the realms of life and death.

This sacred symbol was far more than an insect; it was a living manifestation of the divine cycle, carrying the sun across the sky and ensuring the rebirth of the day with each dawn. Its wings, spread wide in flight, represented the soul’s journey through the afterlife, the path from darkness to light, and the protection of the deceased as they moved beyond the mortal realm.

The winged scarab was a powerful talisman, one that not only provided protection against evil forces but also guided the soul on its journey through the underworld. Often seen on amulets, the scarab was placed in tombs and worn by the living as a shield against misfortune and death. It was said that those who carried the winged scarab would be guarded by the gods themselves, their journey in life and afterlife safeguarded by divine wings.

Yet, the deeper mystery of the winged scarab lies in the belief that it held the ability to transcend time itself. The wings were not just symbols of protection—they were a doorway to eternity. Legends tell of those who, in times of great need, would invoke the power of the scarab and find themselves suspended in a moment of timelessness, where the gods whispered their secrets.

Material:

Pharaonic schist:

Refers to a variety of metamorphic stones widely used by the ancient Egyptians from 3100 to 30 BC. This stone is characterized by its layered composition, which facilitates its shaping and carving. Schist is composed of minerals such as mica, chlorite, and talc, giving it a lustrous sheen and a smooth surface. These qualities made it a valuable material for fine sculptures, ritual objects, and funerary items. The ancient Egyptians preferred schist for its ability to support intricate carvings, making it a prime material for temple statues, stelae, and tomb artifacts, which often held religious significance.

DIMENSIONS:

L:  6.3  inches

D:  2 inches

H: 6.3  inches

weight: 1.2  lb