Ancient Bactria, AE stamp seal “Dolphin”, 2300–2000 BC

Bactrian bronze stamp seal in the form of a stylized Dolphin from around 2300–2000 BC, a fine example of early administrative and trade tools from Central Asia

Weight & Dimensions: 16.45 g, 44 × 23 mm

🔶 Description

Cast bronze stamp seal representing a highly stylized aquatic creature, likely a dolphin or fish, rendered in openwork design. The body is elongated and slightly curved, pierced by geometric cutouts forming the eye, fins, and body segments. The circular eye is deeply recessed with a raised central boss, and the tail and head are indicated by triangular terminals. The reverse side bears a arched loop handle, integral to the casting, allowing suspension or pressing into soft material

The seal exhibits fine wear smoothing and traces of light green patina in recesses, suggesting age and long-term burial oxidation. The openwork technique reflects the aesthetic of the Oxus Civilization (Bactria–Margiana Archaeological Complex), combining functional sealing purposes with zoomorphic symbolism

🔶 Context & Function

Such zoomorphic bronze seals were used in administrative or commercial contexts, likely for marking goods, storage containers, or textile packages. The dolphin or fish motif may have held apotropaic or symbolic meaning, possibly associated with water, fertility, or trade.
By the mid 3rd millennium BC these early stamp seals gradually gave way to cylinder seals, reflecting evolving bureaucratic systems across Central and Western Asia

Excellent ancient patina with clear openwork detailing and intact loop. Minor earthen deposits in crevices. Exceptional preservation for an artifact of this period

🔶 Provenance: Central Asia (Bactria / present day Southern Uzbekistan)

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