- Historical period(s)
- 3100-2900 BCE
- Medium
- Limestone or marble
- Dimension(s)
- H x Diam: 1.8 × 2 cm (11/16 × 13/16 in)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Leonard Gorelick
- Accession Number
- F1999.6.59
- Keyword(s)
- cylinder seal, human, limestone, marble, pottery
- Label
-
The surface of this cylinder seal is divided into three panels, obtained by heavily drilling the sides of the seal. From the proper left to the right, the first panel shows a schematic image, often identified as a "pigtailed woman," squatting on a mat or bench and performing activities often interpreted as related to potting, churning, weaving, and farming. The figure is depicted with her arms reaching towards pots. The second panel displays the pigtailed woman squatting on a mat or bench with raised arms. Depending on how the seal is positioned, this figure may be oriented upside down in contrast with the other panels. The third panel shows two sets of pots.
References:
Collon, Domique. 2005. First Impressions: Cylinder Seals in the Ancient Near East. London: British Museum Press.
- Published References
-
- Antonietta Catanzariti. The Ancient Near East Seal Collection. Washington. .
- SI Usage Statement
-
Usage conditions apply
There are restrictions for re-using this image. For more information, visit the Smithsonian's Terms of Use page.