Ancient Mesopotamian Seals in Erzurum Archaeology Museum
This study examines 22 seals of Mesopotamian origin, which were acquired by the Erzurum Archaeology Museum and are currently held in its collection. The artifacts were photographed in the museum's laboratory, impressions were made, and Xray fluorescence (XRF) analyses were performed. The seals were evaluated through stylistic analysis, referencing established academic publications. Seals are a vital component of Mesopotamian culture. While stamp seals were used from the Neolithic period onwards, the peoples of Mesopotamia adopted cylinder seals with the rise of the Sumerians, using them continuously until the Persian period. These artifacts often find their way into museum collections through both legal and illicit means. Consequently, thousands of Mesopotamian stamp and cylinder seals are preserved in major museums worldwide. Because southeastern Turkey is part of this cultural sphere, seals are regularly brought to museums in the region.
- Journal
- ANADOLU ARASTIRMALARI-ANATOLIAN RESEARCH
- Year
- 2025
- Issue
- 33
- Pages
- 112-128
- ISSN
- 0569-9746
- eISSN
- 2667-629X
- DOI
- 10.26650/anar331742028
- WoS UID
- WOS:001655815500006