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Details
LOT 1294
Sassanian Carnelian Stamp Seal
3RD-7TH CENTURY A.D.
3/8 in. (1.19 grams, 10 mm).
Composed of a small plano-convex body engraved with a ritualistic figure or symbol to the base; drilled for suspension. [No Reserve]
Provenance
UK gallery, early 2000s.
Literature
For similar symbols and seals see Anavian, H., Habib Anavian Collection, Ancient Near Eastern Cylinder and Stamp Seals from the Early 6th Millennium B.C. to 651 A.D. New York, 1976, nos.423-425.
Footnotes
According to some scholars, these seals originated as brands for cattle and contain elaborated hereditary notes. According to others they could represent monograms or Neshan (rank badges) or rank insignia. The crescent can be also associated with Zoroastrian shrines.
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