“This small, dark stone scarab isn't just a carving of a beetle; it's a "heart scarab," a vital amulet placed on mummies in ancient Egypt to ensure safe passage into the afterlife. Its presence was believed to protect the deceased during the final judgment.”
This small, carved stone scarab, smooth and dark, represents a beetle, a creature revered in ancient Egypt. Despite its modest size (just under two inches long), it held immense spiritual significance. Known as a "heart scarab," it was placed on a mummy's chest, often within the wrappings, to ensure the deceased's safe passage into the afterlife. The underside of this particular scarab, though not visible here, would typically be inscribed with a spell from the Book of the Dead, urging the heart not to bear witness against the deceased during the judgment before Osiris. This specific piece dates to the Third Intermediate Period, a time when funerary practices continued to emphasize the protection and resurrection of the soul. The scarab's enduring form, resembling the dung beetle's habit of rolling balls of dung (which the Egyptians saw as self-creation), made it a powerful symbol of rebirth and regeneration.
- Artist
- Ancient Egyptian
- Date
- -1069
- Medium
- Stone
- Location
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Dimensions
- 2 × 4.5 × 3.3 cm (13/16 × 1 3/4 × 1 1/8 in.)
- Collection
- Arts of Africa
- Culture
- Egypt
- Credit line
- Gift of Henry H. Getty and Charles L. Hutchinson
What to Notice
Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.
The beetle's segmented body and delicate legs are subtly rendered.
Observe the smooth, polished surface of the stone.
Imagine this small object resting on a mummy's chest.
Consider its practical size for inclusion in funerary wrappings.
Stand in front of it and listen
The full narration walks you through Heart Scarab — the story behind it, the details most visitors miss, and why it matters. Free in the Art Whisper app.
