Sumerian Steatite Cylinder Seal with Caprids

Culture: Sumerian

Period: Early II Dynasty of Ur, 2700-2600 B.C.

Material: Steatite

Dimensions: 3.9 cm high

Price: Sold

Ref: 6671

Provenance: From the Austrian collection of Danho Abdul Massich, acquired in 1978 and since then in Austria.

Condition: Intact

Description: Cylinder seal carved from black steatite, dating to the Early II Dynasty of Ur. The scene, engraved into the stone with a drill, depicts a herd of caprids, probably goats. Two adult animals lift a foreleg and stand opposite a third animal. The dense arrangement and rhythmic sequence are intended to symbolize a herd. This is completed by the young animal shown in the upper register, running above the backs of the fully grown horned animals. Seals of this type were often connected with temple administration or animal husbandry and were used to seal supplies, vessels, or doors. Compare this type with the cylinder seal sold at Christie’s London on 2 May 2013 and the example from the collection of Jean-Philippe Mariaud de Serres, auctioned at Christie’s Paris on 17 February 2011, lot 160.