Worshiper Led by Goddess Toward Enthroned God, inscribed
Cylinder seal and impression
Mesopotamia, Third Dynasty of Urca. 2112–2004 B.C. Jasper 32 x 20 mm Seal no. 277
Item description:
The religious sentiment of the period is profoundly visualized on this seal. The enthroned deity on the right receives a worshiper led by an interceding goddess. The deity is characterized by his erect posture, long flowing beard, and the steady gaze of his eye fully sculpted in profile. The scene is remarkable for the interaction of the figures expressed by their gestures, specifically through their delicately carved hands. Commerce was crucial to the success of the Third Dynasty of Ur; the inscription on the seal identifies its owner as a trader.