Ancient Near East / Central Asia, Sasanian (Sassanian / Sassanid) Empire, ca. 2nd to 7th century CE. A trio of stone stamp seal beads, two orange-red carnelian or quartz, the third shiny black hematite. Each has a flat, ovoid face and a domed body pierced through for suspension. One features an abstract set of symbols including a crescent moon and an altar, probably representing a specific clan or tribe. Another features an altar with a flame atop it. The third is incised with an image of a large, hulking bird of vulture-like form. The Sasanians are particularly known for their animal carvings on stamp seals. Size of largest: 0.8" W (2 cm)
Provenance: private Matrisciano collection, Thousand Oaks, California, USA; acquired in 1990s from Malter Galleries, Los Angeles, California, USA
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#156459
Condition
All are intact with light wear commensurate with age and rich deposits. Motifs are still clear. All are accompanied by a modern clay rollout.