Mesopotamia has been regarded as the cradle of ancient glyphic arts, with the earliest cylinder seals proven to have been firstly executed during the Bronze Age, circa 4th Millennium BC. Each following a period in Ancient Mesopotamian history which contributed to the developing styles and techniques of glyphic arts. Zoomorphic, mythical creatures and religious scenes became one of the most favoured decorative repertoires applied on cylinder seals. Commonly, these seals were fastened around the neck for easy access. The engraving of stylised animals left an impression significant to a signature. After having succeeded over the Parthian Empire, the Sasanian Empire became the last imperial dynasty and political power to rule in the region of the Near East and western Asia before the arrive of Islam.
For more about stamp seals, see our relevant blog post: Making their Mark
