Jemdet Nasr Black Stone Large Stamp Seal of a Quadruped

Object Description

A finely carved, large Mesopotamian black stone stamp seal from the Jemdet Nasr period. The animal takes the form of a recumbent horned quadruped, possibly a bovine, with its legs folded underneath its body and its head posed front-on. The sunken eyes of this animal would likely have once held inlays of precious stones. Upon the reverse, the flat base exhibits multiple drilled dots with small, incised, linear lines. This piece has been perforated vertically for suspension.

Date: Circa 3rd Millenium BC

Object History

From the property of late Mr SM, London, UK, 1969-1999, thence by descent.

Object Condition

Fine condition. Chip to one horn and reverse. Earthly encrustation and small scratches in places consistent with age.

Object Details