των Σασσανιδών Κορνεόλη Σφραγίδα με τετράποδο με κέρατα (χωρίς τιμή ασφαλείας)

A finely engraved Sasanian stamp seal formed from carnelian with natural striations of white and orange. The seal is circular in shape with a domed back. The flat face of the seal has been carved with a quadruped, possibly a bull. The animal is depicted facing left, with a long tail, long horns and bent legs. Linear incisions decorate the body of the animal. The seal is perforated horizontally for suspension. Signs of wear, such as minor chipping to the surface.

Seals were often made of stone however there are also examples rendered in bone, ivory, faience, glass, metal, wood, and even sun-dried or baked clay. In the ancient world, seals guaranteed the authenticity of marked ownership – as such, they were instrumental in legal transactions, and in the protection of goods against theft. Seal amulets with stylised animals have been found throughout Mesopotamia in contexts dating to the late fourth millennium BC, although stamp seals and cylinder seals were the predominant types in the ancient Near East.

Measurements: (circa) W 1.6cm x H 1.4cm

Provenance: Ex major SM., London, Collection 1970-2010.

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