Material: Gold, stone (including black and reddish varieties)
Date range: 12th century BC
Origin: Tiryns, Mycenaean civilization
These seals may have marked ownership or sacred roles in Mycenaean society. Engraved figures suggest links to myth or ritual authority.
Gold seals with animals and humans reflect elite status and spiritual symbolism. Cylindrical stone seals were likely used in ceremonial stamping or identification.
Found in a hoard, these items were preserved as part of burial or temple offerings. Their craftsmanship shows the value placed on sacred imagery and personal power.
Museum label reference: The 'Tiryns Hoard': 12th century BC