Watch List notes:

Egyptian Scarab Bearing the Cartouche of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. 18th Dynasty, Circa 1391-1353 BC. This delicate example of a scarab impression seal bears the throne name of Amenhotep III enclosed in the traditional oval cartouche. Husband to the unusually prominent Queen Tiye and father to the heretical Akhenaten (Amenhotep IV), Amenhotep III was, himself, a fascinating figure. The notion of the pharaoh's literal conception by Amen, the virtual chief of the Egyptian pantheon, in addition to the king's uniquely intimate relationship with the sun god, grew increasingly prominent during his reign, paving the way for the unprecedented, henotheistic ideology of his successor, who favored Aten, the sun god as the flaming disk in the sky, above all other deities. A wonderful souvenir of a remarkable historical moment, intact and in fine condition. Length: 5/8". Estimate Value $300 - 350
Ex Living Torah Museum collection; ex Archaeological Center Auction #29, lot 106.