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Gold Scarab with Depiction of a Bird

Gold Scarab with Depiction of a Bird

Etruscan

One of a set of four similar gold scarabs. This scarab, which may be a pair with 2012.1.18, has a convex back with two small raised dots for eyes, a horizontal register of a thick line surrounded by a thinner line, with the rest of the body covered by thin vertical lines to indicate the wings. The underside, which is concave, bears an incuse depiction of a stylized bird in profile, facing to the left. The remains of a coiled spring are visible at the top, possibly part of a hinge or used for suspension. The scarab is slightly dented, and the edges have slightly separated on the underside.

Gold

Classical period, Late, to Hellenistic

Jewelry