New Kingdom, 19th-20th Dynasty, 1279-1081 B.C. Rectangular bead with reserved image of Bes to one face, hieroglyphs to the reverse giving the legend 'beautiful praise (of) Amun'. Cf. Petrie, W.M.F., Button and Design Scarabs, London, 1925, pl. XXX, no. 1122, for a similar Bes design on a block bead. 1.31 grams, 13 mm (1/2 in.).

Ex Emile Bouillon Bey, c. 1880. From the Gaston Maspero Archaeological Fund. with Hotel des Ventes du Perigord, Bergerac, 24 June 2007. Property of a French collector.

Bes became one of ancient Egypt's most popular apotropaic deities from the New Kingdom onwards. Despite his somewhat fearful appearance, Bes was the patron and protector of pregnant women and children. He was also believed to protect from snakes. [No Reserve]