1900-1700 BC. A haematite cylinder seal with figural frieze; accompanied by a museum-quality impression and an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: Cylinder Seal of Hematite, 22.5 x 11.5 mm. The design consists of a group of three standing figures. On the right is the sun-god Shamash, one leg projecting from a long robe and holding in one hand his saw-weapon. Facing him is a figure in a deep-brimmed hat and a long fringed robe, holding up a short rod in one hand. Behind him is a Lamma-goddess, in horned tiara, long flounced robe, and holding up both hands. There is a two-line cuneiform inscription: d šamaš Shamash / d a-a Aya. Shamash was the sun-god, and Aya his spouse. This is an Old Babylonian seal, c. 1900-1700 B.C. from Mesopotamia. Though somewhat worn, it is an example of fine seal engraving of the period. 9.32 grams, 23mm (1"). From an important North London collection formed before 1980. This lot is part of a single collection of cylinder seals which were examined in the 1980s by Professor Lambert and most are accompanied by his own detailed notes; the collection has recently been reviewed by Dr. Ronald Bonewitz.

Fine condition.