Scarabs

Chapter 24: PLATE III. PRE-DYNASTIC CYLINDER SEALS.

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Archaeology & Anthropology Art History - Ancient

About This Book

A systematic introduction to ancient Egyptian seals and signet rings that explains their origins, functions, and methods of manufacture. It surveys practical uses—securing property, authenticating documents, and transferring authority—and outlines the officials and engravers involved. The work classifies and describes a wide range of forms, including cylinder seals, button-shaped types, beetle-shaped scarabs, and various signet rings, offering technical commentary and comparative typology. Extensive illustrations and plates accompany the text, and the volume includes indices of personal and royal names and of titles to support identification and further research.

PLATE III.

PRE-DYNASTIC CYLINDER SEALS.

1. Three animals in a desert wadŷ (?). M-G.

2-7. Black steatite cylinder-seals, bearing personal names written in primitive hieroglyphic characters, each name being determined by the seated figure of a man. These examples are all in the M-G. Collection, except No. 3, which is in the Amh. Collection.

8 and 9. Black steatite cylinder-seals, bearing personal names (?), written in primitive hieroglyphic characters, but without a seated figure determinative. M-G.

10. A personal (?) name reading Asunut. Amh. A fine specimen in wood.

11-13. Three black steatite cylinder-seals, bearing inscriptions of uncertain meaning. M-G.

14. A beautifully cut ivory cylinder-seal, bearing a personal name reading Sheden. Murch.