A Mesopotamian Clay Stamp Seal, Jemdet Nasr Period, ca. 3000 - 2900 BCE

Of pale buff clay, the base carved in a linear motif with a high gabled back, the four sides each drilled with a hole for suspension.

Individuals and administrative bodies used seals to denote ownership of items and to authenticate documents. A man typically carried his seal on his robe for easy access. Wearing a seal became recognized as a method of protection and good fortune.

Dimensions: Height: 20 mm (0.78 inches), length: 23 mm (0.9 inches)

Condition: With some minor surface wear, intact and in good condition overall

Provenance: Paul Ilton private collection. During his lifetime, Paul Ilton was internationally known as an archaeologist, lecturer, teacher, film consultant and author, personally excavating the pieces within his collecting during his 25 years in the Holy Land. He recorded his findings in a book “The Bible was my Treasure Map” published in 1958 following his death.