Ancient Central Asia, Bactria, ca. 2100 to 1600 BCE. A hand-carved gray steatite stamp seal of a discoid form bearing a scalloped edge bearing an etched scorpion motif. The verso once contained a ring handle that could be held when making an impression into clay or suspended on a cord when not in use. The large scorpion has outstretched spindly limbs and stinger tail curled around to the side. Size: 2" Diameter x 0.3" W (5.1 cm x 0.8 cm)

Provenance: private Southern California collection, USA, bestowed 2006; ex-J. Malter collection, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired before 2006

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#161158

Loss to handle ring. Scorpion has been retouched in modern times. Chips and surface nicks. Overall good condition.