A large Anatolian Steatite Gable Seal with Antelopes, Ubaid Period, ca. 4500 - 3500 BCE

Of rectangular form, this early seal is hand carved and polished from dark steatite, and has a low gabled back that is drilled with a hole for suspension. The flat sealing face is engraved with the motif of three horned animals facing left (possibly anetelope), and below the left animal's head is a branch of vegetation. Gable seals such as this example were manufactured in north Syria and south-east Anatolia during the Ubaid Period (5000-3600 BC). Typically carved with standing horned animals and at least one branch of vegetation, shaped with a round or rectangular face, the type is perfectly exemplified by this seal.

Ref: Pittman, Holly. Ancient Art in Miniature: Ancient Near Eastern Seals from the Collection of Martin and Sarah Cherkasky. New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art (1987), 18. Dominique Collon. 7000 Years of Seals. London: The Trustees of the British Museum (1997), 12. 

Medium: Steatite

Dimensions: Length: 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm)

Condition: The seal is intact and in excellent condition overall, with traces of ancient use. A very fine and impressive example.

Provenance: Private NYC Collection acquired in the local USA market.