A finely incised Sumerian, Early Dynastic cylinder seal made from alabaster, featuring a single horizontal register of engravings rendered in a symmetrical composition. The scene presents a central human figure, depicted holding two ibexes upside down by their hind legs. On the two sides are several zoomorphic figures, possibly vultures and fish. The seal is perforated longitudinally for suspension, however it is now blocked. Some earthly encrustations and abrasions to the surface consistent with age. Please note the impression is for reference only. Seals were often made of stone however there are also examples rendered in bone, ivory, faience, glass, metal, wood, and even sun-dried or baked clay. In the ancient world, seals guaranteed the authenticity of marked ownership – as such, they were instrumental in legal transactions, and in the protection of goods against theft. Seal amulets with stylised animals have been found throughout Mesopotamia in contexts dating to the late fourth millennium BC, although stamp seals and cylinder seals were the predominant types in the ancient Near East. Measurements: Circa L 5.3 cm x W 2.3 cm Provenance: From Ex. Cotswold collection 1980. A large part of the collection was sold by a Cirencester Auction in November 2018.