Late 3rd-early 2nd millennium BC. A mixed group of five bronze seals comprising: three accompanied by typed and signed notes by the late W.G. Lambert, Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: (V-860) 'Stamp Seal of Bronze, 40 x 41 x 15mm. This is round, with flat face and flat back, in the middle of which is a handle of inverted U-shape. The design, which is both compartmented and open-work, consists of a simple cross within a plain outer band and each quarter is filled with two struts giving the impression of a star with four rays. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. There is some incrustation on the surface and the outer rim is dented and partly broken off, but the general condition is good.'; (T-791) 'Stamp Seal of Bronze, 56 x 55 x 21mm. this is round, with scalloped outer edge, the face is flat, as is the back, on which there is an angular pierced suspension loop. The design, which is both compartmented and open-work, consists of a kind of rosette within an outer band with scalloped rim. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is covered with heavy incrustation, which could be removed. The metal underneath appears to be sound.'; (T-153) 'Stamp Seal of Bronze, 40 x 33.5 x 22mm. This has flat face and flat back, on which a tall stalk handle is mounted. It has an unusual shape, and the design is both compartmented and open-work in part. it may be a stylized depiction of a standing human figure akimbo, but if not the matter is open. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2200-1800 B.C. The metal is in good condition, but the edges of the piece are dented in places. It is a rare design.'; one with scrolling pattern, large ribbed handle to the reverse; one discoid with schematic standing figure and scrolling pattern, stem handle to the reverse. 188 grams, 40-56mm (1 1/2-2 1/4"). The Signo collection, the property of a West London businessman, formed in the late 1980s-early 1990s; collection numbers T-153, T-791, Z-50, R-721, V-960, academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s. [5]
Condition
Fine condition.