CNG 93, Lot: 1972. Estimate $750. Sold for $3250. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

New Kingdom. 19th Dynasty. Ramesses II (circa 1279-1213 BC). Steatite scarab (24x18mm). Back finely carved with Toth as a baboon squatting before a cartouche containing the throne name of Ramesses II. Base engraved with a crouching ram-headed sphinx wearing the atef crown; on the left the inscription “Amon-Re”; on the right “ruler of Thebes”. For a similar base, cf. Ben-Tor p. 48, 7. Small chip at base, back slightly worn with traces of blue glaze remaining. An exceptional piece with a complex back engraving and beautiful overall carving.

From the David Hendin Collection.