A finely engraved Sasanian stamp seal formed from a brown agate. The seal is hemispherical in shape, featuring a flat oval face at the base. This face has been carved with the depiction of a quadruped with a prominent hump on its back, most likely a camel. The animal has been depicted in a stylised manner with a rounded eye, a long neck and long thin legs. Further incisions enrich the body of the animal. Behind, five short incisions decorates the background. The dome of the seal is perforated horizontally for suspension. Signs of wear as consistent with age, such as minor chips and scratches to the surface and edges. 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: L1.6 x W 2.3cm Provenance: Ex major S.M., London, Collection 1970-2010. 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.**