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HOME :
Near Eastern Art :
Miscellaneous : Zoomorphic Votive Seal with an Intaglio
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Zoomorphic Votive Seal with an Intaglio - D.0030
Origin: Lake Van, Anatolia
Circa: 4000
BC
to 3000
BC
Collection: Near Eastern
Medium: Dickite
Location: United States
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| Description |
This ancient votive seal was discovered with a
cache of similar artifacts along the shores of
Lake Van. Evoking the dawn of Western culture,
these apparently were offerings at the shrine of
some powerful god. This unknown deity appears
to have been associated with fertility and rebirth.
The design that adorns them—of birds, animals,
cult idols—probably stood in proxy for more
costly sacrifices. Pressed into soft clay or wax,
they would have created multiple images to win
the favor of the god. Carved with an abstract
simplicity but an observant eye toward nature,
the stark visual appeal of this piece is timeless.
These seals represent dreams, hopes and
aspirations for health, success, and happiness
that are as old as civilization itself.
- (D.0030)
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