Mediterranean paralells of a psametic scarab from ‘El Toro’ necrópolis (Alcubillas, Ciudad Real-Spain)

Abstract

This paper presents the study of a scarab found in the Necropolis of El Toro, located in the interior of Iberia. The scarab tomb is described, followed by a detailed morphological, typological, archaeometric (SEM-EDX analysis), and chronological analysis of the amulet, including absolute dating. The archeometallurgical analysis by X-ray fluorescence (XRF) of the metal pieces of the trousseau is also included. The piece shows signs of having been in contact with fire, is greenish-blue in colour and can be attributed to the early reigns of the 26th Dynasty. On the base there is an inscription of five Egyptian hieroglyphic characters inserted in a cartouche adapted to the shape of the amulet. Its inscription makes it possible to read the anthroponym p-s-m-T-k, compatible with similar specimens found in Egypt and in the Mediterranean in the seventh and sixth centuries BC.