Featured soapstone scarab age

hi folks

anyone have an idea about this soapstone scarab

its poorly carved and a bit ropey, but wondering if it has any age

not sure what the two holes either side are about

it just looked a bit older or handled more than the usual type i see

any thoughts appreciated

 

This one is a bit like yours, also with that openwork:

https://www.etsy.com/listing/918376135/egyptian-scarab-beetle-with-detailed?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=marble+scarab&ref=sr_gallery-1-9&content_source=5b80c55412d40cb4d4dc911b75892e65efcc44da%3A918376135&organic_search_click=1&logging_key=5b80c55412d40cb4d4dc911b75892e65efcc44da:918376135

Ambitious price imo.

 

You will hardly ever find a scarab that does not have holes at either end. Many are drilled right through so they can be used as beads. On some the holes do not go all the way from end to end, but do allow for something like a swivel mount. Obviously these are functional considerations for smaller scarabs, but seem simply to be tradition so that pieces that are more paperweight size also have them.

 

thanks Bronwen, i've noticed that on all the examples i've looked at. so the bigger ones are probably just made in the same tecniques as the old beaded ones to make them look more authentic. hole does go all the way through but can't see it being used as a bead

 

If it's a tourist or museum shop piece it's still rather nice.

 

I don't think terribly old. I used to import some cheap ones in the 90s and they were better quality than this. I am sure some better ones are still being made but think the quality on the lower end ones has suffered. Ironically, I just picked up a scarab at the thrift the other day. Will try to get a photo and post it.

 

Here is the one I picked up. About the same size as yours. No holes, per se, but I guess a cord could pass through.

 

much better/more animated form, whats that one made from brad, soapstone ?

 

Yes, soapstone. Think it has some stain applied.

 

i'm surprised theres ancient soapstone ones still knocking about, given how soft and damageable they are

don't know if the soapstone hardens on the so mentioned ancient ones

https://www.antiquities.co.uk/shop/...tian-steatite-scarab-with-a-blessing-to-amun/