Publication Date
ca. 911-612 BCE (Neo-Assyrian)
Publication Place
-
The Walters Art Museum
Subject
Culture: Neo-Assyrian | more | less
Type
Other
Language
Undetermined
Digital
Yes
Manuscript
No
Physical Dimensions
Dimensions: H: 1 9/16 in. (4 cm)
Library
Digital Library of the Middle East
Library Asset ID
42.706
Record ID
walters-21277
Library Location
The Walters Art Museum
Date
ca. 911-612 BCE (Neo-Assyrian)
Notes
This seal's intricately carved scene depicts a winged genius in the "Master of Animals" pose. He is flanked by winged human-headed bulls, and the genius holds them by their beards.
Cylinder seals are cylindrical objects carved in reverse (intaglio) in order to leave raised impressions when rolled into clay. Seals were generally used to mark ownership, and they could act as official identifiers, like a signature, for individuals and institutions. A seal’s owner rolled impressions in wet clay to secure property such as baskets, letters, jars, and even rooms and buildings. This clay sealing prevented tampering because it had to be broken in order to access a safeguarded item. Cylinder seals were often made of durable material, usually stone, and most were drilled lengthwise so they could be strung and worn. A seal’s material and the images inscribed on the seal itself could be protective. The artistry and design might be appreciated and considered decorative as well. Cylinder seals were produced in the Near East beginning in the fourth millennium BCE and date to every period through the end of the first millennium BCE.
For the latest information about this object, cylinder seals, visit art.thewalters.org. | Dynasty: | Inscriptions: | Reign: | Style: | more | less
Parçası Olduğu
ANE | Ancient Art
Malzeme
chalcedony
