A fine Early Dynastic cylinder seal carved from dark brown, black hardstone, featuring stylised figures. Carefully engraved across the surface, a frieze comprised of two seated figures is depicted. Other elements fill the background of the seal. The seal features a curved, concave profile. The seal has been perforated longitudinally for suspension. Slight encrustations and signs of wear, such as minor chips and scratches, to the surface and edges. The piece is accompanied with a professionally baked, museum-quality impression. Seals in antiquity were often made of stone, however there are also examples rendered in bone, ivory, faience, glass, metal, wood, and occasionally 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 with stylised animals or fantasised zoomorphic figural have been found throughout Mesopotamia and dating to the late fourth millennium BC. Measurements: (circa) W 2.3cm x H 4cm Provenance: From the collection of the late S, London, UK, 1970-2000. Examined by Professor Wilfred George Lambert FBA (1926-2011), historian, archaeologist, and specialist in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology, in the 1990s. N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**