Take a look at this dialogue from 2005:
http://beadcollector.net/cgi-bin/anyboard.cgi?fvp=/openforum/&cmd=iYz&aK=35168&iZz=35168&gV=0&kQz=&aO=1&iWz=0
Many recent imitations of seals were made via wheel-cutting, that creates somewhat crude lines like gashes. That's what I see with your bead.
Actual ancient seals were constructed very differently. There are, to be sure, more-authentic-looking imitations of old seals. And it can be difficult to distinguish them. But the wheel-cut imitations stand apart (because they are crude).
Also, I am surprised by the micro-cracks in the material. They make the surface seem almost organic.
JDA.
Hello Jamey
Very interesting read and so much information it is to me amazing how many beads of all forms, materials and ages you have worked with.
I thank you for this forum.
My other seal is of a bull and it is not wheel cut. I will try to get you a picture.
again thanks Jamey for all your information.
sincerely from Walter
Hello Jamey
In looking at the bead and your comment. almost looks like organic material?? Can you please explain
Micro cracks, from heating??
Please look at the clay images I sent to you.
Please advise
from Walter Anderson
Hello to the group
Please look at the impression made from this bead.
This is the first time since 1985 I have rolled out the seal bead.
Can someone tell me what the symbols represent??
Many thanks in advance
sincerely from Walter Anderson
Since the vast majority of stone beads (in the quartz family) have been heat-treated, over the previous 5,000 years, if heat-treating caused micro-crackling we would see this effect many many times.
That is why I expressed surprise that your bead has them. And, the only beads I can think of that seem similar are derived from organic materials.
But, as we know very well, it can be very dicey to judge beads from photos.
The impressions are more-impressive than I expected. But still different from impressions I have seen.
JDA.
Hello Jamey
Can you shed any light on what the symbols might represent??
Any idea what would cause the micro crackling in the bead??
I really appreciate your opinions, and your time in helping me understand some of the nuances of the beads that other wise might go unnoticed.
Thanks again from Walter
Seals are not really my area of expertise. I would probably be inadequate to interpret the images. What I think I see is a personage in profile, relating to a winged griffin.
Wikipedia (conveniently) says: "In Iranian mythology, [a] griffin is called Shirdal [and] means: Lion-Eagle. The Shirdal has appeared in ancient art of Iran since late second millennium BC.[9] Shirdals appeared on cylinder seals from Susa as early as 3000 BC.
I suppose the iconography would be fairly well-known (as to fakers).
JDA.
