23rd-22nd century BC. A substantial limestone cylinder seal with heroes and bulls; accompanied by a museum-quality impression and typed and signed scholarly note issued by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Cylinder Seal of Grey Stone 32 x 21 mm. The design shows a contest scene of two matching pairs: hero in short kilt grappling with a rearing buffalo. To the left is a rearing lion holding up a 'gate-post' standard. This is an Akkadian seal, c. 2300-2200 B.C., with a classic design, reflecting the military might of the ruling dynasty: the heroes fight big animals with their bare hands. The seal is medium size and in fine condition. The 'gate-post' was the symbol of the goddess In?nna.' 25.1 grams, 32mm (1 1/4"). The Signo collection, the property of a West London businessman, formed in the late 1980s-early 1990s; item number W-633; academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s; accompanied by an original typed and signed scholarly note by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert.

Very fine condition.