Ancient Near Eastern Lapis Lazuli Cylinder Seal with Bronze Axis and Large Suspension Loop Circa 2nd-1st millennium BC This superb lapis lazuli cylinder seal is finely cut with a continuous herding scene in relief. Two robed attendants, each shown in profile and holding a staff and a looped tether, flank a procession of animals. The cylinder is drilled longitudinally and fitted with a bronze suspension ring at the top for attachment. Cylinder seals were personal seals used across Mesopotamia and neighbouring regions from the late 4th to the early 1st millennium BC. Worn on a cord or kept with writing tools, they were rolled over wet clay to produce a continuous impression that authenticated tablets, sealed jars and bags. Seals were cut in hard stones, their imagery and inscriptions serving as an individual signature within administrative, legal, and commercial practice. Dimensions: 6cm x 1,5cm x 1,5cm Provenance: Private European Collection; formerly acquired from old UK and European collection formed since the 1970s. Disclaimer: NO SHIPPING OUTSIDE of THE EUROPEAN UNION. All items will be shipped from Belgium. The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits. The seller will not ship outside the EU.