The ancient seal was a stamp or engraving set in stone, metal or some other hard substance like crystal. It was usually a symbol or figure that was used to make an impression on clay, wax or some other soft substance.
Seals were usually attached to a possession or document in order to give it authenticity, ownership or authority. They were often used in the ancient world, especially in Egypt, Babylonia and Assyria and surrounding nations including Israel.
They were used in the earliest civilizations and are of considerable interest in archaeology. In ancient Mesopotamia they were engraved on cylinders which could be rolled to create an impression on clay e.g., as a label on a consignment of trade goods. From Ancient Egypt, seals in the form of signet rings of kings have been found.
Further reading:
Seals
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