An Ancient Near Eastern Steatite Plaque with Dot Engraving, Early Dynastic Period, c. 2900-2334 BCE

This steatite plaque from the Early Dynastic Period features dot engraving, a decorative technique used extensively in Mesopotamia. Such plaques were often embedded in furniture, walls, or religious a

This steatite bird plaque from the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia features an intricately carved depiction of a bird, a common motif symbolizing divine protection or power. Such plaques were lik

This cylinder seal, carved from limestone, belongs to the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia, between 2900 and 2334 BCE. The intricate carvings on the seal depict ritualistic scenes, possibly of div

This cylinder seal, carved from limestone, belongs to the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia, between 2900 and 2334 BCE. The intricate carvings on the seal depict ritualistic scenes, possibly of div

This carved plaque relief, made from chlorite schist, hails from the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia, circa 2900-2350 BCE. The intricate carvings depict scenes of animals, reflecting the sophisti

This cylinder seal from the Neo-Assyrian period is carved from steatite, a material favored for its durability and ease of carving. The intricate engravings likely served both decorative and functiona

This two-faced stamp seal from the Old Babylonian Period is a fine example of the intricate craftsmanship of Mesopotamian artisans. The detailed engravings on each face likely depict mythological scen

This cylinder seal, dating to the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia, between 2900 and 2334 BCE, is crafted from steatite. The carvings, although eroded, likely depicted figures or symbols important

Category: Beads and Jewelry Components This steatite cylinder bead features a simplistic dot motif typical of the Early Bronze Age in the Near East. Steatite, a soft stone, was commonly used for small

This bifacial steatite amulet from the Neo-Babylonian period displays carvings on both sides, which likely served both decorative and apotropaic functions. The craftsmanship reflects the period's adva

This steatite idol from the Early Bronze Age of the Near East demonstrates the era's distinctive artistic style and religious iconography. Idols like this were likely used in domestic shrines or carri

This carved steatite amulet from the Neo-Sumerian period is adorned with a cross motif, possibly indicating a cosmological or religious significance. Amulets like this were essential for personal prot

This stamp seal, dating to the Middle Assyrian period, showcases the evolution of seal design with its geometric and symbolic motifs. Used for marking goods and sealing documents, it reflects the admi

Category: Beads and Jewelry Components Identical to the previous item, this steatite cylinder bead also showcases the Early Bronze Age's affinity for minimalist designs which carried significant meani

This steatite funeral amulet from the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia exhibits primitive religious iconography, suggesting its use in burial rites. Steatite, valued for its durability and ease of

Ancient Near East, Mesopotamia, Sumer, Early Dynastic period, ca. 2900 to 2350 BCE. A fine tabloid seal hand-carved from vibrant blue lapis lazuli to feature the central figure of a king or god facing

Ancient Near East / Central Asia, Mesopotamia, Early Dynastic period,, 3300 to 2900 BCE. A fascinating fragment from a pottery tablet impressed with rows of pro-cuneiform script. The underlying langua

This steatite bust head carving from the Neo-Sumerian period (Ur III) exemplifies the artistry of the era, focusing on detailed human features which may represent a deity or a high-ranking individual.

This steatite amulet from the Akkadian Empire features a dot eye carving, a motif often used to ward off the evil eye and protect the wearer. The use of steatite and the stylized eye symbol are indica

This steatite linear stamp, originating from the Uruk period of the Near East, around 3300 to 3100 BCE, features repetitive geometric patterns. Stamps like this were primarily used for marking goods a

This intricately carved stamp seal, made from fine chlorite schist, dates back to the Early Dynastic period of Mesopotamia (c. 2900-2350 BCE). It exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural s

This double convex stamp seal, made from grey steatite, dates back to the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia (c. 3000-2000 BCE). It exemplifies the intricate craftsmanship and the cultural significa

This exquisite double convex amulet, made from grey and silvery steatite, dates back to the Early Dynastic Period of Mesopotamia (c. 2500-2000 BCE). It exemplifies the intricate craftsmanship and spir

This exquisite steatite carving of an animal's head, likely representing a guardian or symbolic creature, hails from the early Bronze Age civilizations of the Near East. The intricate detailing and st