A round-section gold penannular hoop with pierced ends forming the frame for a glazed composition scarab; the scarab swivelling on a gold wire axle wound about both ends of the shank; the scarab with amuletic symbols to the underside, including two recumbent lions with a lotus flower in between them and assymetric hieroglyphs underneath. The name Hyksos is a Greek corruption of the Egyptian expression hekau khasut, meaning 'Chieftains of foreign lands'. They originated from Canaan and grew strong enough in the mid-17th century to conquer the northern part of the country, ruling for around 100 years.
Hyksos Period, 17th-16th century BC
Provenance: From an early 20th century collection.
Size: 32mm overall, 21.89mm internal diameter (approximate size British Z, USA 12 1/2, Europe 28.77, Japan 27)
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