Engraved Scarab, Phoenicia, 1200–600 Bc

Scarab with naturalistic forms, the upper part engraved, and on the reverse an eight-pointed star, also represented by incision. The entire object is finely carved and polished, with particular attention paid to detail. Carved, polished, engraved and pierced carnelian, good general condition of conservation (see photos). Phoenicia, 1200–600 BC. Dimensions: 1.2 x 0.8 x 0.5 cm. Provenance: former Marie-Ange Ciolkowski collection, Paris, constituted in the 60s–70s. Sold with certificate of authenticity from the expert Serge Reynes, guarantee of origin and period. * Shipping costs on estimate. "The Phoenicians played a central role in commercial and cultural exchanges between different Near Eastern civilizations. These exchanges intensified between 1200 and 600 BC, with reciprocal influences on arts and crafts, particularly between Phoenicia, Mesopotamia, and Egypt. The scarab, a symbol of protection and regeneration, was used as an amulet and adorned seals. The eight-pointed star, engraved on the reverse, could reflect regional cultural influences, probably linked to astral or divinity beliefs, such as those associated with the goddess Ishtar in Mesopotamia."