Stamp seal (scaraboid) with deity (?)

Unknown

ca. 6th–4th century BCE · Flawed brown and white eyestone Agate (Quartz) · Ancient Near Eastern Art

This stamp seal is made of banded brown and white agate. The image, as shown in the modern impression, shows a figure seated on a high-backed chair holding a bowl. The figure wears a long robe and appears to be beardless, suggesting this is a rare image of a Persian woman. An object in front of her may be an incense burner, fire altar or table. Drinking scenes appear on a handful of Achaemenid seals and seal impressions. Their appeal likely derives from the high status they imply, since elite Persians would be invited to dine with the king. The figure on this seal sits in high-backed chair that closely resembles the Persian king’s throne as depicted on the Apadana at Persepolis, further insinuating a royal connection.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 6th–4th century BCE

Medium

Flawed brown and white eyestone Agate (Quartz)

Culture

Achaemenid

Department

Ancient Near Eastern Art

Credit line

Bequest of W. Gedney Beatty, 1941