A NEO-BABYLONIAN HEMATITE CYLINDER SEAL, 9TH-7TH CENTURY B.C.

拍品描述

Finely engraved dark hardstone cylinder seal of cylindrical form, deeply carved with a continuous sacred presentation scene depicting robed worshippers and deities arranged in procession. The principal figures are shown in the characteristic Mesopotamian gesture of adoration, raising one hand before enthroned and standing divinities beneath the celestial crescent of the moon god Sin (Nanna). Stylized sacred trees separate the figures, reinforcing the composition’s religious symbolism of divine protection, fertility, and cosmic order. The engraving displays elegant linear treatment of the pleated garments, expressive facial profiles, and carefully balanced spacing, producing a remarkably crisp and detailed impression when rolled across clay. An excellent example of first-millennium BC Mesopotamian glyptic art, combining artistic refinement with its original administrative and ritual function as both a personal seal and protective amulet. Height: 2.3cm

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