Canaanite - Scarab with Resting Griffon - Walters 42524 - Right

This faience scarab has a flat underside with a horizontally arranged design of a resting griffon with raised head, wings, and tail above a script sign. The piece was formed in a mold. The design of the back is very simply modeled. The workmanship is slightly rough and the piece is poorly made.
The scarab functioned as an amulet with divine kingship connotations, and was originally mounted or threaded. The amulet should assure magical protection for its owner.

The discoloration may be a result of fire. The shape of the scarab is very unspecific, and it is difficult to find criteria for the dating of the piece. But, the form and attitude of the griffon, as well as the very reduced back design suggests a time frame into the Hyksos period.